North Korea: Kim Jong-un oversees new weapons tests to enhance 'tactical nukes'

North Korea has continued its weapons tests this month, with leader Kim Jong-un overseeing its recent tests. The recent tests were of the country’s new guided-weapons system to enhance its nuclear arsenal.

AFP reports that Kim oversaw the recent weapons tests as reported by state media over the weekend. The recent tests involved a new guided-weapons system that would bolster its “tactical nukes.” The tests also marked the end of the week-long celebrations honoring North Korea’s founder Kim Il-sung, who is also Kim Jong-un’s grandfather.

The weapons tests are also the latest in a series of weapons tests that breached sanctions by the United Nations this year. Among the tests made so far this year was of an intercontinental ballistic missile, the first full-fledged ICBM test since 2017. The tests also come ahead of the annual joint military exercises between the US and South Korea which have often drawn the ire of Pyongyang that is set to start Monday.

The new weapon “is of great significance in drastically improving the firepower of the frontline long-range artillery units and enhancing the efficiency in the operation of tactical nukes,” said state media outlet KCNA. The tests were reportedly a success but the date and location of the tests were not specified.

South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff also said it detected two projectiles that were fired Saturday, flying at 110 kilometers at an altitude of 25 kilometers at Mach 4 speed.

A spokesperson for the US Defense Department said Washington is aware of North Korea’s statement regarding the testing of the long-range artillery system.

North Korea held a celebration Friday last week, marking the 110th anniversary of Kim Il-Sung’s birth. The celebration involved fireworks, a procession, and an evening gala at Pyongyang’s main square. No military parade took place during the celebrations.

To note, Pyongyang has often used the holiday, also known as the Day of the Sun, to show off its military arsenal.

Kim visited his grandfather’s mausoleum and attended a “national meeting and public procession” in Kim Il-Sung square but did not deliver any remarks. According to a senior North Korean official who spoke at the meeting, they said that the nation “would overcome all difficulties and always emerge victorious,” KCNA reported.