North Korea commissions 2nd destroyer as US, South Korea and Japan hold military drill

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has commissioned his second naval destroyer as the United States, South Korea and Japan hold trilateral military exercises “Freedom Edge” on Monday.

According to South Korea’s military, these drills are defensive in nature and designed to boost a joint response capability against North Korean nuclear threats.

In the wake of these joint military drills which Kim sees as a security threat to the country, he also called for building a more reliable nuclear deterrent as cited by the state media.

The commissioning service was held in the eastern port city of Wonsan on Sunday, attended by Kim Jong Un and his daughter.

The move of putting the ship into service comes as Pyongyang is increasing pressure on Washington aimed at extracting the bigger concessions from the United States as reported by analysts.

In a speech at the ceremony, the motive behind commissioning the back-to-back warship is to instil fear in hostile countries and ensure the country’s nuclear deterrent in more diversified and practical manners.

Kim said, “Concerns of the enemies will surely be deepened. We must establish more clearly a powerful and reliable nuclear war deterrent, to put into practice the diverse and effective operation of our nuclear combat systems and further strengthen our military activities for maritime defense and war deterrence.”

North Korea now possesses two 5,000-ton destroyers that are capable of carrying various conventional and nuclear weapons. According to experts, the country built these two destroyers with the help of Russia. Destroyers' weapons and radar systems would enhance North Korea's offensive and defensive capabilities.

In July, North Korea said it test-fired nuclear-capable cruise missiles from the Kang Kon.

North Korea is reportedly pursuing a major new naval advancement slated for unveiling in eight months, with analysts speculating the project aligns with Kim Jong Un's ambition to build a nuclear-powered submarine.