North Korea has commissioned the Kang Kon, its second 5,000-ton Choe Hyon-class guided-missile destroyer, as Pyongyang continues efforts to expand and modernize its naval forces. The commissioning ceremony was held at Wonsan on September 6 and was attended by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, according to state media.

The Kang Kon is the second vessel of the class to enter service after the Choe Hyon, which was commissioned in June. The approximately 145-meter warships are considered the largest and most advanced surface combatants operated by the North Korean Navy. The Kang Kon has been assigned to the East Sea Fleet, responsible for operations in waters east of the Korean Peninsula.

North Korean state media previously reported that the Kang Kon conducted weapons tests involving cruise missiles and other guided weapons. During the commissioning ceremony, Kim said the destroyer would form part of the country\'s nuclear response system. However, state media did not specify which nuclear weapons, if any, would be deployed aboard the vessel.

Kim also indicated that North Korea intends to continue expanding its naval capabilities, including the construction of additional surface warships and new naval facilities. He said another significant stage of the country\'s naval development could be revealed within eight months, although no details were provided about the planned development