According to the state-run [North] Korean Central News Agency, the tests were conducted the previous day to evaluate the accuracy and combat readiness of a 240-mm multiple rocket launcher system, a tactical ballistic missile and a 155-mm self-propelled howitzer, all of which have enough range to hit targets in South Korea.
KCNA released a series of photos showing Kim, accompanied by senior party officials and military brass, inspecting weapons lined up along the coast, and said the test was aimed at changing the fire posture along the "southern border," with its leader stressing "the three principles of putting weapons on an automatic, long-range and ultra-precision basis."
It also quoted Kim as saying, "To make the enemies feel constant uneasiness and fear is just an important aspect of the exercise of war deterrent."
Citing the current international situation, in which "sovereignty can be defended and existence guaranteed only by complete upper-hand in strength," Kim stressed the need to strengthen the country's military capabilities as an "immediate task" under its five-year plan for national defense and called for the "irreversible" development of its armed forces.
He tested a K15 light machine gun at the unit near the Northern Limit Line, the de facto maritime border with North Korea, stressing the importance of strong deterrence to maintain peace on the Korean Peninsula.
The K15, a successor to the decades-old K3 machine gun, is designed to improve accuracy and usability through upgraded optics, modular components, and enhanced reliability. It recently completed phased deployment to front-line units after years of development and testing.
Lee called for the continuous modernization of the South Korean military by replacing older systems and weapons to improve defense capabilities.
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