Seoul, SOUTH KOREA (Reuters) —
North Korea held a tactical nuclear attack simulation exercise on Saturday (2/9) involving two long-range cruise missiles, North Korean state media reported, Sunday (3/9). The exercise was held in conjunction with North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un’s visit to shipyards and munitions factories.
The KCNA news agency reported the drills were held early Saturday to “warn enemies” that the country would be ready in case of nuclear war. Pyongyang is again determined to strengthen military deterrence efforts against the United States (US) and South Korea.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visits the Pukjung Machinery Complex and a large munitions factory at an undisclosed location in North Korea, Sunday, September 3, 2023. (Photo: KCNA via Reuters)
Two cruise missiles carrying mock nuclear warheads were fired towards the West Sea from the Korean peninsula and flew 1,500 kilometers at a height of 150 meters.
In a separate statement, Kim visited the Pukjung Machinery Complex which produces maritime engines and a large munitions factory. During his visit, Kim stressed the importance of strengthening Pyongyang’s naval power.
“He emphasized that the upcoming plenary meeting of the WPK (Worker’s Party of Korea) Central Committee will determine the important modernization of the complex and the direction of development of the shipbuilding industry,” KCNA said in its statement.
The statement did not mention a date for Kim’s visit.
The latest missile test took place after the annual joint summer exercises between South Korea and the US, known as the Ulchi Freedom Shield, ended on Thursday (31/8). The joint air training lasted for 11 days involving a number of B-1B bombers. (ft/ah)