Kim Jong Un called for readiness to use nuclear weapons

^{Photo: KCNA}
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un called for the army to be fully prepared to use nuclear weapons following the test of strategic cruise missiles. This was reported by KCNA.

According to him, the missile tests were conducted on February 26 in the first half of the day. The missiles flew a distance of 1,587 kilometers in 7.9 seconds and "hit the target accurately." Kim Jong Un stated that the purpose of the tests was to warn "enemies who seriously violate security and contribute to escalation," as well as to demonstrate "readiness to use various nuclear weapons."

What is guaranteed with strong strike capability is defense and deterrence capability. The responsible task and duty of the DPRK armed forces is to continuously protect national sovereignty and security with a reliable nuclear shield, enhance the combat readiness of nuclear forces, and be fully prepared to use them, said Kim Jong Un.

South Korean military noted signs that the DPRK was preparing for a missile launch on February 26 and monitored their flight. It is reported that Pyongyang has been engaged in the development of strategic cruise missiles designed to deliver nuclear warheads for several years.

In January 2024, the DPRK launched a new medium- and long-range hypersonic ballistic missile. According to Kim Jong Un, it is capable of overcoming any missile defense system. Pyongyang has been reporting hypersonic weapon tests since 2021. However, North Korean missiles have not covered a distance of 1,500 km.