Overview
- Kim Jong Un monitored the launch by video link, and state photos showed his daughter, Kim Ju-ae, seated beside him.
- The missiles flew for 10,116 to 10,138 seconds over the Yellow Sea and struck designated island targets, according to KCNA.
- KCNA said the trial validated the national integrated command for strategic weapons and the destroyer’s integrated combat system.
- Outside analysts assessed the cruise missiles could range roughly 2,000 to 2,500 kilometers, though independent verification remains limited.
- The back-to-back tests preceded the destroyer’s commissioning and followed North Korean statements backing Iran and condemning U.S. and Israeli actions.