North Korea commissions Kang Kon nuclear destroyer

North Korea commissioned a new 5,000-ton naval destroyer, the Kang Kon, into its fleet on Sunday, September 6, 2026, with leader Kim Jong Un stating the vessel will be part of the nation's nuclear response system and capable of delivering "annihilating retaliatory strikes." The ceremony took place at the eastern port city of Wonsan. Kim Jong Un, attending the commissioning, emphasized the warship's role in strengthening the country's naval forces and its nuclear deterrent. He asserted that it was time for North Korea to exercise its sovereignty at sea and under water, citing constant threats in the waters off the Korean Peninsula. The Kang Kon is the second destroyer of its class to enter service, following the commissioning of the Choe Hyon in June 2026. State media reported that the Kang Kon is equipped with the same weapons systems as the Choe Hyon, which analysts suggest can carry nuclear-capable missiles. The production of the Kang Kon was not without incident; it partially capsized during an initial launch attempt in May 2025 before being successfully relaunched the following month. The vessel underwent further repairs and sea trials, completing weapons testing in July 2026.