North Korea Unveils Dozens Nuclear-Capable Rocket Launchers
Kim Jong Un praises new 600mm multiple rocket launcher system as strategic deterrence amid regional tensions
North Korea | PUREWILAYAH.COM — The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea has unveiled dozens of nuclear-capable rocket launchers in a high-profile ceremony attended by Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un, just days ahead of the ninth congress of the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea.
According to state media, the presentation showcased a new generation of 600mm multiple rocket launcher systems capable of carrying nuclear warheads, marking one of Pyongyang’s most significant weapons displays in recent years.
600mm Launchers Presented as ‘Strategic Weapon’
North Korean media reported that 50 rocket launchers were formally presented by workers from the munitions industry sector during a ceremony in Pyongyang.
Kim Jong Un described the system as a “wonderful” and “attractive” weapon, calling it the “world’s most advantageous weapon for concentrated, super-powerful attack.”
Kim stated that the weapon is suitable for what he termed a “special attack,” a phrase widely understood to refer to nuclear missions, and said the system is designed to accomplish strategic objectives in the event of conflict.
Photographs released by state media showed dozens of launch vehicles lined up in formation at Pyongyang’s House of Culture plaza, the venue set to host the upcoming party congress.
Artificial Intelligence and Deterrence Claims
According to official statements, the new rocket launcher system incorporates artificial intelligence technology and compound guidance systems, enhancing its accuracy and operational effectiveness.
Kim emphasized that the weapon is intended to deter hostile forces and ensure that “no enemy force could expect protection” if it were deployed.
South Korea’s Yonhap News Agency quoted Kim as saying the system represents a decisive leap in North Korea’s military capabilities.
Party Congress to Set Military and Nuclear Direction
The unveiling comes ahead of the Workers’ Party’s ninth congress, held once every five years and regarded as North Korea’s most important political event. The congress is expected to outline Pyongyang’s political, military, and nuclear strategy for the next five years.
Kim said the congress would declare “the next phase of the self-reliant defense initiative” and accelerate efforts to modernize and expand the country’s military capabilities to counter external threats.
The previous party congress, held in January 2021, emphasized strengthening nuclear deterrence, expanding the defense industry, restructuring the economy, and reducing external dependence—policies that were followed by a series of missile and weapons tests that drew widespread international reactions.
Regional Implications and Military Assessments
South Korea’s military said it is closely monitoring North Korea’s weapons development. Analysts estimate that the 600mm launcher system may have a range of up to 400 kilometers, placing all of South Korea within reach.
Regional analysts note that, if equipped with tactical nuclear warheads, a single battery of such launchers could inflict severe damage on key military installations, including airbases.
Seoul, located less than 50 kilometers from the inter-Korean border at its closest point, remains particularly exposed in any escalation scenario.
Worsening Inter-Korean Relations
Relations between Pyongyang and Seoul have sharply deteriorated in recent years. North Korea has effectively suspended dialogue with South Korea since 2019, following the collapse of nuclear diplomacy with the United States over sanctions.
Pyongyang has since abandoned its long-standing rhetoric of peaceful reunification, declaring the Korean Peninsula to consist of two hostile states.
In a separate statement, Kim Jong Un’s sister, Kim Yo Jong, warned that North Korea is strengthening border security, citing alleged drone incursions from the South. She said preventing such incidents would be in South Korea’s interest, stressing that “the border with the enemy should be solid.” (PW)