Kim Jong-un Inspects Upgrade at North Korean Tank Factory
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un inspected a tank factory, expressing satisfaction with upgrades to indigenous designs. He stressed the importance of modernizing military tanks and artillery. The visit reflects North Korea’s strategic focus on enhancing conventional forces amidst changing warfare dynamics, particularly seen in the Ukraine conflict.
In a recent development, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has conducted an inspection of a tank factory, highlighting significant upgrades to the country’s indigenous tank designs. The state media, specifically the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), reported Kim’s emphasis on the necessity to modernize military equipment with state-of-the-art tanks.
During this visit, the details of which remain sparse as the location and date were not disclosed, Kim assessed the factory’s production capabilities and its modernization progress. He specifically pointed out the importance of advancing core tank technology, according to Yonhap news agency.
Kim articulated the urgency of replacing older armored vehicles within North Korea’s military, stating, “To replace the armoured weapons of the last century in our army with the latest tanks and armoured vehicles is the most important issue in the building of armed forces and modernisation of the army.” He added that an accurate comprehension of the military’s operational tasks and the evolving role of tanks in warfare is essential for this transition.
While inspecting the production, Kim reiterated the need for substantial upgrades in producing advanced tanks and self-propelled artillery. In his words, this is crucial not just for military enhancement, but for the governing party’s mandate to initiate a “second revolution in armoured force” amid ongoing modernization efforts.
According to KCNA, the leader showed “satisfaction” with the new tank designs, which he lauded for their scientific accuracy and reliability, especially regarding the advanced engines. He observed that a favorable development outlook has emerged within the tank industry, advocating for a continued focus on refining the technologies for their main battle tanks.
In a broader context, North Korea’s focus on weapon modernization has taken on increased significance. Last week, the country acknowledged sending troops to Russia to assist in its ongoing conflict with Ukraine. South Korea’s intelligence suggests that this deployment has afforded North Korea valuable combat experience.
Yang Moo-jin, a prominent academic at the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul, opines that North Korea is increasingly prioritizing conventional military expansion. He noted that the current conflict in Ukraine illustrates a shift in warfare dynamics, where conventional arms—like artillery and missiles—Pakistani the pivotal factors for tactical success. As he put it, “The war in Ukraine has shown that nuclear weapons are primarily for deterrence and are difficult to use in practice, while conventional weapons… determine the success or failure of modern warfare.”
In summary, Kim Jong-un’s recent factory inspection underscores North Korea’s determination to modernize its armored forces through indigenous development. His remarks indicate a strategic pivot toward enhancing conventional military capabilities, especially given the evolving nature of modern conflicts as seen in Ukraine. This direction may symbolize broader military reforms as North Korea seeks to refine its military strategies and technologies.
Original Source: www.thehansindia.com
