Seoul, Sep 13 (IANS) – North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has announced that Pyongyang will pursue a dual policy of developing nuclear forces alongside conventional weapons at the country’s upcoming party congress, according to state media.
Kim made these remarks during inspections of the Armoured Defensive Weapons Institute and the Electronic Weapons Institute under the Academy of Defence Sciences on Thursday and Friday, Yonhap reported, citing the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
The North Korean leader emphasized the importance of modernizing conventional forces to build a strong army, reviewing developments in new armoured vehicles and electronic weaponry. KCNA reported that Kim stated: “The ninth Congress of the Workers’ Party of Korea (WPK) will advance the policy of simultaneously building nuclear forces and conventional armed forces as part of national defense strengthening.”
North Korea had earlier announced plans to convene the ninth party congress at the WPK plenary meeting in June but had not provided further details. The last party congress, held in January 2021, showcased Kim’s commitments to sophisticated weapons, including military spy satellites and solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missiles.
Kim’s latest statements indicate a continued focus on advancing conventional weapons alongside nuclear and missile programs, particularly as South Korea maintains a relative advantage in conventional military capabilities.
During the inspections, Kim reviewed research in armoured defence, including the development of special composite armour and an “intelligent active protection system” for armoured vehicles. He also observed tests of a new active protection system designed to counter frontal, lateral, and overhead attacks from various anti-tank missiles.
Earlier this year, Kim visited a tank factory, emphasizing that upgrading armoured weapons with advanced tanks and vehicles is critical for modernizing the army.
In addition, Kim oversaw a sniper shooting contest between troops from the metropolitan garrison command and the central security organ’s special mobile force. He highlighted the importance of systematically training special sniper units to enhance overall military effectiveness.
Amid North Korea’s deployment of approximately 15,000 troops to support Russia in Ukraine, Kim has underscored the urgency of modernizing conventional weapons, strengthening field training, and boosting combat readiness.
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