North Korea conducted its first nuclear counterattack drills, simulating its “nuclear trigger” management system under the guidance of leader Kim Jong Un, as reported by state news agency KCNA on Tuesday. The drills were intended as a clear warning to the country’s enemies.
The reclusive state fired several short-range ballistic missiles towards the sea off its east coast on Monday, according to South Korea’s military. As part of testing the nationwide nuclear management system, North Korea’s artillery forces participated in the country’s first such drills on Monday to showcase diversified nuclear capabilities and protest against U.S. and South Korean military exercises deemed “provocative and invasive” by KCNA.
During the simulation drills, Kim Jong Un oversaw the maneuvering of troops in nuclear counterattack posture and the firing of artillery with mock nuclear warheads in response to potential nuclear crisis alerts. KCNA reported that Kim praised the readiness of North Korea’s tactical nuclear attack weapons, describing them as “the world’s best.”
In addition to the recent drills, North Korea is believed to be preparing to launch another spy satellite after successfully putting a reconnaissance satellite in orbit in November. The country also announced last week that it had tested a strategic cruise missile with a large warhead and a new anti-aircraft missile.
The provocative actions by North Korea have raised tensions in the region, prompting concerns about the potential escalation of conflict.