North Korea fires long-range cruise missiles to test nuclear deterrence, Kim Jong Un oversees launch

North Korea said on Monday that it had test-fired long-range strategic cruise missiles into the sea to assess its nuclear deterrence, days after it revealed apparent progress on building its first nuclear-powered submarine.

According to the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), the missile launches took place off the country’s west coast over the Yellow Sea on Sunday and were overseen by leader Kim Jong Un. The drill was intended to evaluate the combat capability and counter-offensive readiness of long-range missile units.

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KCNA reported that Kim expressed “great satisfaction” with the test, describing it as “just a responsible exercise of the right to self-defense and war deterrence” amid what Pyongyang views as growing external security threats.

South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff confirmed that it detected several cruise missile launches from North Korea’s capital region on Sunday morning. It said Seoul remains prepared to respond to any potential provocation in coordination with the United States.

While UN Security Council resolutions ban North Korea from launching ballistic missiles, cruise missile tests are not prohibited. However, such weapons are still considered a significant threat to South Korea and the US because of their ability to fly at low altitudes and evade radar detection.

North Korea portrayed the missile launches as a defensive step, with state-run KCNA quoting leader Kim Jong Un as saying that testing the reliability of the country’s nuclear deterrence was a “responsible exercise of the right to self-defence and war deterrence” in response to what Pyongyang views as growing external threats, AFP reported.

The test follows recent indications of progress in North Korea’s first nuclear-powered submarine programme. KCNA last week said Kim inspected a large submarine under construction at an indoor facility, accompanied by senior officials and his daughter, Kim Ju Ae. Authorities have suggested the vessel could be equipped with nuclear-capable missiles.

The drills also come at a politically sensitive moment, ahead of a ruling Workers’ Party congress scheduled for early next year, the first in five years. The meeting is expected to draw close international scrutiny for possible signals on future policy, including Pyongyang’s stance toward the United States and long-stalled nuclear talks.