Kim Jong Un, the leader of North Korea, indicates that missile development would continue for the next five years
North Korea’s leader emphasizes that missile production is crucial for deterrence as Pyongyang gears up for a new five-year development plan.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has indicated that Pyongyang will persist in enhancing its missile development over the next five years, highlighting the pivotal role of weapons production in the nation’s defense strategy.
As reported by state media outlet KCNA, Kim expressed these remarks while visiting key munitions enterprises in the last quarter of 2025. He characterized the missile and artillery production sector as “paramount” in enhancing the country’s war deterrence capabilities.
During the inspections, Kim approved draft documents detailing plans to modernize essential munitions factories. KCNA announced that the proposals will be presented at an upcoming Workers’ Party congress anticipated in early 2026, during which North Korea’s next five-year national development plan is set to be adopted.
The report arrives at a time of increased scrutiny regarding Pyongyang’s military operations. On Thursday, KCNA announced that Kim had supervised the construction of an 8,700-ton nuclear-powered submarine with his daughter, who is often seen as a possible successor. He oversaw the test-firing of long-range surface-to-air missiles.
The recent revelations underscore North Korea’s determination to enhance its military technology, even in the face of international sanctions and persistent tensions surrounding its weapons programs.
