North Korea Modernizes Munitions Industry as Kim Pushes Long-Term Missile Growth

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signaled the country will continue developing missiles over the next five years as he pushed modernization of major munitions enterprises, according to Reuters on December 26. 

State media KCNA said Kim visited major munitions enterprises in the last quarter of 2025 and said “the country’s missile and shell production sector is of paramount importance in bolstering war deterrent,” Reuters reported.

KCNA also added that Kim ratified draft documents for the modernization of key munitions enterprises that will be submitted to a ruling Workers’ Party congress expected in early 2026, which is due to set North Korea’s next five-year development plan. 

Reuters has reported that North Korea has sent soldiers, artillery ammunition and missiles to Russia after Kim and the Russian leader, Vladimir Putin signed a mutual defense pact, and that KCNA cited Kim as saying “various soldiers of our military have participated in overseas military operations.” 

Earlier, it was reported that North Korea is building its first nuclear‑powered submarine with strategic guided missiles and that leader Kim Jong Un oversaw a long‑range surface‑to‑air missile test, part of its broader military advancement efforts.

Support our frontline reporters

We report from the front lines to show the reality of war. Your support helps us stay there and tell the stories that matter.

DONATE NOW