North Korean leader Kim Jong Un personally oversaw the test-firing of two new types of anti-aircraft missiles. Picture this, the general says, as he robustly proclaimed their efficacy against future aerial threats such as drones and cruise missiles. Tensions on the Korean Peninsula, meanwhile, continue to simmer after recent missile testing. Kim’s administration continues to dismiss appeals from both Seoul and Washington to restart the stalled negotiations over the future of its nuclear weapons and missile programs.
The chronology of the recent missile tests clearly illustrate North Korea’s promise to continue to develop its military power. The government isn’t sitting back and is overtly attempting to improve air defenses. It arguably asks for the most important military support from Russia, which has emerged as one of North Korea’s most indispensable allies.
Strengthening Military Ties with Russia
In a broader context, Kim Jong Un’s government has prioritized fostering relationships with nations opposed to the United States, particularly Russia. It follows recent reports that Kim has dispatched several thousand troops to Ukraine. He has supplied major tons of military equipment to Russia, together with artillery and ballistic missiles, to help President Vladimir Putin’s warfare efforts.
Further solidifying this alliance, Kim held a ceremony in Pyongyang last week to honor North Korean soldiers who have fought in Ukraine. During the ceremony, he referred to these soldiers as “great men, great heroes and great patriots,” highlighting the regime’s efforts to bolster national pride through military achievements abroad.
“great men, great heroes and great patriots” – Korean Central News Agency
In return for this military cooperation, Kim has made a big promise. He will deploy thousands of construction battalion and de-miners to assist in Russia’s Kursk oblast. Recent reporting suggests as many as 15,000 North Korean troops have already been sent to Russia. Unfortunately, nearly 600 of these service members have become casualties in combat zones.
Advancements in Air Defense Systems
Between Kim Jong Un attempting to bolster the country’s air defenses with recent missile tests. This move comes as North Korea’s own anti-aircraft and radar systems are aging. Russia has now directed missiles and other equipment towards strengthening these defenses. By almost all accounts, this is a huge area of hope and opportunity for cooperation between the two countries.
Kim is continuing to make strides with the military. He has given important missions to defense scientists to help them get ready for an important political congress likely early next year. This decision signals the seriousness with which the government is pursuing the development of its military technology and capabilities.
Last October, North Korea completed its new intercontinental ballistic missile’s test program, successfully launching the weapon to a new record altitude in space. This advancement roused alarm across the world, adding to the already tumultuous geopolitical environment surrounding North Korea’s growing military ambitions.
Continued Defiance of International Pressure
Unfortunately, Kim Jong Un’s administration has consistently rejected overtures from both Seoul and Washington. This dismissal follows international outcry and urging for diplomacy. The emphasis is still all in on building military superiority and military alliances instead of diplomatic solutions.
