North Korea holds ‘nuclear counterattack’ drills (PHOTOS)
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has overseen a military exercise simulating a nuclear counterattack, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). The drill, conducted on Thursday, involved the launch of short-range ballistic missiles and long-range artillery to assess the readiness of the nation’s nuclear forces.
The exercise featured 600mm multiple-launch rocket systems and the Hwasong-11 (KN-23) tactical ballistic missile, both said to have nuclear capabilities. The missiles reportedly flew around 800km before landing in the sea, demonstrating the operational capacity of North Korea’s missile systems.
The drill also included an inspection of the “nuclear trigger” system, designed to manage and control the nation’s deterrence arsenal and ensure rapid deployment if necessary. “The goal of the drill was achieved, and the reliability of the command and mobilization system capable of quickly reacting to any nuclear crisis was verified,” the KCNA reported.
Kim stressed the importance of maintaining the combat readiness of the country’s nuclear forces, highlighting the need to enhance long-range precision strike capabilities and overall weapons efficiency.
Last month, he called for accelerated efforts to arm the navy with nuclear weapons, while attending a weapons systems test aboard the DPRK’s Choe Hyon multi-mission destroyer. After witnessing the demonstration, he reportedly noted that the warship’s firepower still relied on conventional weaponry and “cannot be called a reliable means of maritime defense.”
The US and South Korea have been conducting regular joint military exercises in the region, which North Korea has repeatedly condemned as provocative. In response, Pyongyang has increased its missile testing, asserting its right to self-defense and deterrence.
Russia has also pledged to help protect North Korea if it comes under attack, under a mutual defense agreement signed last year. The treaty obligates both parties to provide immediate military assistance to each other if necessary.
The agreement was signed by Russian President Vladimir Putin and Kim in June 2024, after which North Korean troops officially joined Moscow’s military operation aimed at repelling a Ukrainian incursion into Russia’s Kursk Region. Putin later expressed gratitude for the role Pyongyang’s troops played in liberating the region, noting that they had demonstrated “heroism, a high level of specialized training, and bravery.”
