North Korea has announced plans to enhance its military capabilities with the introduction of a new 240mm multiple rocket launcher, according to state media reports on Saturday. This development signals a notable advancement in the country’s artillery combat capabilities, as per Pyongyang’s Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
Leader Kim Jong Un personally supervised a live-fire test of the “technically updated” rocket system on Friday, as reported by KCNA. This move comes following Pyongyang’s earlier claims in February about developing a new control system for its 240mm multiple rocket launcher, promising a “qualitative change” in defense capabilities. Subsequently, a test-firing of new shells was conducted last month.
The KCNA statement detailed that the updated rocket launcher will gradually replace existing equipment in units of the Korean People’s Army between 2024 and 2026. However, South Korea’s defense ministry indicated it could not confirm the specifics of Friday’s test launches.
The announcement coincides with growing concerns among analysts about North Korea’s potential involvement in supplying weapons to Russia amid the conflict in Ukraine. Pyongyang’s strengthened military ties with Moscow have been noted recently, with North Korea expressing gratitude for Russia’s UN Security Council veto that blocked the renewal of a panel monitoring international weapons sanctions on Kim’s regime.
While North Korea’s military activities are under scrutiny, the country has also hinted at expanding its defense-related economic activities through technological advancements. President Yang Moo-jin of the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul pointed out that North Korea’s actions may indicate its intentions to participate in weapons exports and other defense-related economic ventures.
Inter-Korean relations have deteriorated significantly, with North Korea designating South Korea as its “principal enemy” and escalating military threats. This stance, coupled with the country’s recent military advancements and international engagements, underscores a complex and evolving geopolitical landscape in the region.