North Korea unveils nuclear-capable rocket, warns enemies ‘no force would expect God’s protection’

Seoul: North Korea has unveiled a massive new multiple rocket launcher capable of carrying nuclear warheads, with leader Kim Jong Un personally overseeing the ceremony, state media reported.

According to the Korean Central News Agency, the newly introduced 600-mm multiple launch rocket system is designed for what Pyongyang described as a “strategic mission,” a term widely interpreted as nuclear deployment. Kim said the system was “appropriate for a special attack, that is, for accomplishing a strategic mission,” while insisting it would serve as a deterrent against unnamed adversaries.

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“When this weapon is used actually, no force would be able to expect God's protection,” Kim was quoted as saying. “It is really a wonderful and attractive weapon.”

Military analysts believe the launcher could target South Korea, particularly the capital region, which lies less than 50 km from the border. North Korea has long relied on the threat of large-scale artillery “saturation” strikes as a core wartime strategy.

The unveiling comes amid a sharp acceleration in Pyongyang’s missile testing programme in recent years, aimed at improving precision-strike capability and countering both the United States and South Korea. Analysts also say the tests could be linked to potential arms exports, including to Russia.

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The development coincides with preparations for a major ruling party congress expected later this year, where defence policy and economic strategy are likely to dominate discussions.

In a separate statement, Kim’s sister, Kim Yo Jong, said she “highly appreciates” South Korea’s pledge to prevent further drone incursions after Pyongyang claimed it had shot down a surveillance drone last month.

“I highly appreciate Chung Dong-young, minister of unification of the ROK, officially acknowledged the ROK-born drone's provocative intrusion into the airspace of our country, expressing regret once again and willingness to prevent a recurrence,” she said, according to KCNA.