North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has expressed outrage at his military and officials after a second naval destroyer was damaged during a launch accident, state media reported on Thursday. The incident occurred when the ship’s transport cradle slid off and became stuck, causing the vessel to become unbalanced and punctured in its bottom sections.
Kim, who was present at the ceremony, condemned the “absolute carelessness” of military officials, scientists, and shipyard operators for a “serious accident and criminal act”. He called for a meeting with the ruling Workers’ Party to address their “irresponsible errors”.
Experts say that the disclosure of the failed launch suggests Kim is serious about his naval advancement program and confident in ultimately achieving his goal. The incident has raised concerns over North Korea’s ability to modernize its navy forces, but analysts believe the damaged vessel would still enhance the country’s offensive and defensive capabilities.
The damage was likely caused by workers being unfamiliar with the large warship, which is believed to be similar in class to North Korea’s first destroyer unveiled last month. Kim has called the first vessel a significant asset for advancing his military’s operational range and nuclear strike capabilities.
Satellite images from Planet Labs PBC showed that the damaged vessel remains toppled over in the sea, with most of its hull submerged. The incident is a rare disclosure by North Korea of a military-related setback, which suggests Kim is committed to his naval advancement program.
North Korea has been expanding its military partnerships with Russia, including providing equipment and soldiers to aid Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine. Despite being considered inferior to its rivals, the damaged vessel would still enhance the North’s capabilities, according to analysts.
The incident comes as North Korea continues to test its military capabilities, including a recent series of cruise missile launches. Kim has framed the arms buildup as a response to perceived threats from the United States and South Korea, which have been expanding joint military exercises in response to the North’s advancing nuclear program.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/north-korea-ship-launch-accident-kim-jong-un-angry-carelessness