North Korea unveils long-range artillery and its first destroyer, signaling heightened tensions with Seoul

North Korea said it will deploy new long-range artillery capable of striking the Seoul metropolitan area this year and will commission its first naval destroyer in coming weeks, a move Kim Jong Un showcased by visiting a munitions factory and inspecting the destroyer Choe Hyon. The weapons, including 155-mm self-propelled gun-howitzers with a range of over 60 kilometers, accompany broader border deployments and a hard‑line shift reflected in North Korea’s public stance, signaling increased tensions with South Korea as diplomacy remains stalled. Kim’s daughter was photographed aboard the destroyer during the public display.