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The test of an upgraded 240mm rocket launcher system comes approximately three months after North Korea announced its intention to equip its military with these ’new’ weapons read more
 "Kim Jong-un attends test-firing of 'new' rocket launcher system capable of hitting South Korea")
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un witnessed the test of upgraded 240 mm multiple rocket launchers. File Image/Reuters
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un personally oversaw the test of an upgraded 240mm rocket launcher system, state media reported Wednesday (August 28).
The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that the system “proved its superiority in mobility and strike concentration” during the inspection testing. The launcher, it said, has been “technically updated in its manoeuverability and concentrated firing capability.”
Improvements included a “newly applied guiding system, improved controllability, and increased destructive power,” according to the agency.
This development comes approximately three months after North Korea announced its intention to equip its military with a “new” 240mm multiple rocket launcher (MRL) system, which is reportedly capable of striking Seoul.
In February, North Korea had claimed that these updates would lead to a “qualitative change” in its defence capabilities, and in May, it announced that the updated launcher would be deployed to military units from 2024 to 2026.
Kim expands military arsenal
Earlier this week, Kim Jong Un also supervised tests of new “suicide drones” and urged researchers to integrate artificial intelligence into these unmanned vehicles.
Known as loitering munitions, these drones can remain airborne while searching for targets and then strike by crashing into them with a built-in warhead. Such technology has been widely used in conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.
Weapons from Noth Korea to Russia
This latest military development comes amid accusations from U.S. and South Korean officials that North Korea has been supplying Russia with artillery shells, missiles, and other equipment for use in the war in Ukraine.
According to a statement given by South Korean Defense Minister Shin Won-sik to media, North Korea has shipped more than 12,000 containers to Russia since last year, including various types of shells and short-range missiles.
Both Moscow and Pyongyang have denied any arms transfers but have vowed to deepen their military relations.
With inputs from agencies
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English (US) ·