At North Korea’s Nampo Shipyard, construction activities for additional Choi Hyun-class destroyers appear to be underway. The Choi Hyun destroyer itself is being prepared for a long-term operational capability evaluation. North Korea’s construction of additional new warships appears to be aimed at expanding its naval operational range by enhancing its capability to operate surface-to-air, anti-ship, and land-attack missiles. In addition, following its development of ICBMs, this move likely reflects an intention to secure further modern long-range strike capabilities to use as a means of pressure against the United States and South Korea.

Following the recent failed launch of a destroyer at the Chongjin Shipyard, the shipyard director and four others were arrested, and further severe disciplinary actions are expected. During the performance evaluation of the Choi Hyun destroyer, any incidents such as underperformance or explosions are also likely to lead to accountability. Consequently, test evaluations involving significant risk are expected to be delayed.