What You Need to Know:
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has ordered a rapid increase in missile production to bolster “unquestionable military power” and prepare for potential conflict, according to state media KCNA on Monday. This directive coincides with upcoming joint military exercises between South Korea and the United States.
Kim’s order came during recent visits to key munitions factories that manufacture tactical missiles, missile launch platforms, armored vehicles, and artillery shells. This move occurred just days before scheduled annual military drills, which North Korea views as rehearsals for war.
Kim stressed the urgent need to “significantly boost” missile production to meet the demands of reinforced frontline military units, as reported by KCNA. He emphasized the central role of the munitions industry in shaping the nation’s readiness for conflict.
The Details:
During his inspections, Kim drove a new combat utility armored vehicle and praised progress in modernizing production lines for high-caliber multiple rocket launcher ammunition, according to KCNA.
A strong urgency was expressed to “dramatically increase” rocket production to strengthen frontline artillery units. Kim asserted, “Our military must ensure absolute military superiority and unwavering readiness to counter any conflict instantly, deterring hostile actions and responding forcefully if necessary.”
Meanwhile, South Korea and the United States announced plans for the Ulchi Freedom Guardian summer exercises from August 21 to 31. The joint exercises aim to enhance their collective response to North Korea’s evolving nuclear and missile threats, although North Korea has criticized these drills as simulations for a nuclear war.
This year’s exercises are set to be the “largest ever,” involving substantial troops from both sides and several member states of the U.N. Command. The maneuvers will encompass about 30 field training programs, as outlined by South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS).
Colonel Lee Sung-jun, a JCS spokesperson, stressed, “These exercises are crucial to maintain a strong joint defense stance and prepare for potential emergencies arising from escalating provocations by North Korea.”
The United States has accused North Korea of supplying weapons to Russia during the Ukraine conflict, including artillery shells, portable rockets, and missiles. Both North Korea and Russia have denied these allegations.
Looking forward, a trilateral summit at Camp David on August 18 will address security cooperation on North Korea, Ukraine, and other issues. The leaders of South Korea, the United States, and Japan will convene to discuss these matters.
In a separate update, KCNA reported that Kim visited areas affected by tropical storm Khanun, which caused extensive flooding of farmlands across the Korean peninsula.
