North Korean leader Kim stresses stronger naval nuclear deterrent

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for faster development of naval forces that can play a larger role in the country's nuclear deterrent, according to state-media reports cited by international news agencies.

State media said Kim visited the Kang Kon destroyer during navigation tests on June 4 and stressed the need to strengthen the navy's combat capabilities and its role in deterring nuclear war. The report was later echoed by AP, Reuters-syndicated coverage and Yonhap on June 6.

The public reporting suggests North Korea is sharpening its focus on sea-based deterrence and naval modernization, although the available reports do not give details on any specific deployment timeline or weapons systems ordered for the ship.

The Kang Kon destroyer has become the latest showcase for Kim's emphasis on military development as North Korea continues to present its armed forces as central to its nuclear strategy. It was not immediately clear whether South Korea, the United States or Japan had issued fresh responses beyond the initial reporting.

The new coverage adds to signs that North Korea is seeking to expand the role of its navy in its broader deterrence posture, even as many operational details remain unconfirmed publicly.