North Korea has unveiled the destroyer Choe Hyon, the first of its class, sparking debate among observers about its ability to rival U.S. Burke-class ships. The North Korean navy, despite ranking 23rd in global tonnage, seeks to modernize its fleet with this vessel, which completed missile tests in April 2026.
Integrated system and anti-jam capability in real tests 🚀
During the tests, the Choe Hyon launched three anti-ship missiles and two cruise missiles, hitting with precision under the supervision of leader Kim Jong-un. The vessel demonstrated an integrated weapons system and anti-jam capability, key elements for its naval doctrine. Although its tonnage and technology are inferior to Western standards, the ability to launch multiple missiles from a mobile platform represents a tactical advance for Pyongyang.
Kim Jong-un at the wheel: the destroyer that doesn't need GPS 😂
Seeing Kim Jong-un smiling on the bridge of the Choe Hyon while the missiles flew straight is almost military comedy. They say the ship has anti-jam, but surely the real trick is that enemy satellites get distracted looking at the leader's hairstyle. If the Burkes are worried, they should know this ship isn't looking for war: it just wants its photo taken on Instagram.