Choe Hyon

2025 — Present

Tracks North Korea's naval modernization from the 2025 launch of its first 5,000-ton Choe Hyon-class destroyer, Choe Hyon, through the launch accident and repair of the second ship, Kang Kon, weapons trials and the operational deployment of both ships to its western and eastern fleets. Kim Jong Un has announced plans for additional large surface combatants, modern naval bases and expanded maritime and undersea capabilities as part of an effort to transform the Korean People's Navy beyond coastal defense.