North Korean leader Kim Jong Un praised his country’s Air Force for its growing role in supporting nuclear war deterrence, as he marked the service’s 80th anniversary alongside his young daughter, according to state media reports on Sunday.
Photos published by the Rodong Sinmun newspaper showed Kim observing a display of unmanned aircraft, mobile missile launchers, and military vehicles. The event also featured an air show attended by Kim and his daughter, both dressed in long leather coats, underscoring the North Korean leader’s continued efforts to project strength and family legacy.
Expanding Drone and Missile Capabilities
State media said Kim toured a display that included an airborne early-warning aircraft a model North Korea first unveiled earlier this year. He also viewed several drones, reflecting Pyongyang’s recent focus on expanding unmanned aerial systems as part of its evolving military strategy.
A Ukrainian intelligence official told Reuters that North Korea has begun mass-producing small First Person View (FPV) drones for short-range reconnaissance and attacks, as well as larger, medium-range battlefield drones. These developments suggest the country is seeking to diversify its capabilities beyond traditional missile systems.
Strengthening the “Nuclear War Deterrent”
According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim said the Air Force’s responsibilities are “truly great” as it plays an essential role in the exercise of the nuclear war deterrent. He called on the force to “resolutely repulse and control all sorts of espionage acts and possible military provocations of the enemies.”
Kim also pledged to equip the Air Force with new strategic assets, though he did not specify what those might include. Analysts say this could signal future upgrades to North Korea’s air defence systems or the introduction of advanced drones and aircraft designed for nuclear or electronic warfare support.
Continued Military Focus Amid Isolation
Kim’s public emphasis on the Air Force’s nuclear-related role aligns with North Korea’s broader push to modernise its military, despite international sanctions and economic strain. In recent months, Pyongyang has unveiled new missile systems, advanced drones, and enhanced surveillance technology, asserting its readiness to counter what it calls growing threats from the United States and South Korea.
The anniversary celebrations reinforced Kim’s message of military resilience and deterrence, while also highlighting the symbolic presence of his daughter, seen by observers as part of efforts to shape the image of a dynastic succession within North Korea’s leadership.
(with inputs from Reuters)
