Kim Jong Un urges N. Korea to ready itself for war

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un participated in training exercises with his troops to operate recently acquired battle tanks while emphasizing the need for increased readiness for potential war

North Korea conducted tank drills in response to the annual 11-day military exercises between South Korea and the United States, which are set to conclude on Thursday. North Korea perceives these exercises as a practice for a potential invasion. 

On Wednesday, North Korea’s tank training aimed to evaluate the combat readiness of its tank crews. The training featured the new main battle tank described by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un as “the most powerful in the world,” according to the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). 

The drill involved heavy tanks maneuvering through various simulated combat scenarios and engaging targets with live fire. Kim personally operated one of the new tanks, boosting the morale of the tank crews, as reported by KCNA. 

North Korea’s Defense Ministry previously stated its intent to conduct “appropriate military activities” in response to the ongoing joint military drills between South Korea and the U.S. Later, Kim oversaw artillery exercises. 

The South Korean-U.S. exercises include computer-simulated command post training and 48 different field drills, double the number from the previous year. 

Since early 2022, North Korea has intensified its weapons testing efforts to modernize and expand its nuclear and missile capabilities. In response, the U.S. and South Korea have increased their training activities, including a trilateral exercise involving Japan. 

Analysts suggest that Kim may be seeking concessions from the U.S., such as significant easing of international sanctions, by showcasing his upgraded weapons arsenal. They predict that North Korea will likely continue its testing initiatives and escalate its aggressive rhetoric this year, especially as the US and South Korea approach major elections. 

Source: AP