North Korea Tests New Missile Systems Using Combat Experience

New live-fire exercises conducted by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) indicate that the Korean People’s Army (KPA) is actively incorporating experience gained during its “overseas military operation”.

Chairman of State Affairs of the DPRK Kim Jong Un observed the test, highly praised the results, and “expressed great satisfaction with the application of important cutting-edge defence scientific technologies in practical weapons testing”. According to the DPRK leader, particular recognition should be given to the fact that “the fire-control system and the automated systems of all the launchers have been completely upgraded in accordance with the requirements of modern warfare, thereby increasing their applicability under combat conditions”. Kim Jong Un noted that the tactical cruise missiles are planned to be deployed with long-range artillery units along the southern border.

Kim reaffirmed that Pyongyang’s determination to strengthen both its nuclear and conventional armed forces remains unaltered, warning that its resolve to defend its military sovereignty and right to self-defence “will be expressed through even more decisive actions”.

The South Korean military confirmed the launches, stating that North Korea had fired various types of projectiles, including short-range missiles, projectiles from multiple rocket launcher systems, and possibly loitering munitions, commonly referred to as kamikaze drones.

The 26 May launches were the DPRK’s eighth missile test since the onset of the year 2026 and constituted part of a programme aimed at improving combat readiness and refining the operational use of new weapons systems. On 12........

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