Kim Jong Un, North Korean leader, ordered an increase in missile production over the next year, as well as the construction of new factories to respond to the growing demand for weapons, state media announced this Friday, December 26th.
During a visit to munitions factories, accompanied by senior regime officials, Kim Jong Un ordered production facilities to meet “the anticipated needs of missiles and artillery for the operations of the State Armed Forces”, according to North Korean news agency KCNA.
Kim Jong Un said that “total production capacity must be further increased” to satisfy the needs of Pyongyang’s military, and announced the construction of new munitions factories.
“The missile and projectile production sector is of vital importance for strengthening military deterrence”, said the leader, quoted by KCNA.
North Korea has significantly increased missile launches in recent years. According to analysts, its aim is to increase precision strike capabilities, challenge the United States and South Korea, and test weapons before exporting them, potentially to Russia.
State media reported on Thursday that Kim Jong Un visited a nuclear-powered submarine factory, where he promised to combat what he called the “threat” of South Korea’s nuclear production.
Kim Jong Un also witnessed the test launch of new long-range, high-altitude anti-aircraft missiles over the Sea of Japan, according to official media.
The ruling Workers’ Party of Korea is expected to hold its first congress in five years in early 2026, during which economic and military development plans for the next five years will be discussed.