The Unification Ministry stated on July 6 that North Korea conducted a major weapon system test for its 5,000-ton destroyer, 'Ganggeonho,' and will closely monitor developments in naval power enhancement in collaboration with relevant agencies.
Yoon Min-ho, a spokesperson for the ministry, said during a regular briefing at the government complex in Seoul, "North Korea has consistently emphasized the strengthening of its naval power through the 9th Party Congress and recent plenary meetings."
Regarding the recent test, Yoon explained, "This follows the order for the commissioning of the destroyer 'Choe Hyon-ho' on June 23, leading to the armed system test."
On the previous day, the Korean Central News Agency reported that on July 3, tests were conducted on the combat system performance evaluation plan for the destroyer 'Ganggeonho,' which included the launch of strategic cruise missiles, as well as tests of onboard guns, automatic cannons, and electronic warfare systems.
The tests assessed the ship's target detection and information processing capabilities, as well as the integrated fire control system, followed by firing exercises and the launch of strategic cruise missiles.
'Ganggeonho' is a new 5,000-ton destroyer from North Korea. During its launching ceremony in May of last year, the vessel capsized while being floated, leading to its grounding. The ship was salvaged 22 days later, and the launching ceremony was held, but questions about its operational status have persisted.
Yoon noted that this test is part of the armed system tests following the commissioning order for the destroyer 'Choe Hyon-ho' on June 23.
Previously, on June 23, North Korea also held a commissioning ceremony for the new 5,000-ton destroyer 'Choe Hyon-ho' at Nampo Port and announced its deployment to the West Sea Fleet.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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