Kim Jong-un Strategic Rocket Launchers Production Push Ahead of 2026 Congress

It's a shift from conventional artillery to a strategic nuclear threat. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un visited a major munitions factory to oversee the production of multiple rocket launchers (MRLs), labeling them a "strategic attack means," state media KCNA reported on Tuesday. The visit, which occurred on December 28, 2025, underscores the regime's focus on diversifying its strike capabilities before the new year.

Kim Jong-un Strategic Rocket Launchers and Nuclear Ambitions

Kim called for a "revolution" in upgrading artillery systems during his inspection, emphasizing that these launchers would serve as the military's primary strike capability. By designating these weapons as "strategic," North Korea is signaling their potential to carry tactical nuclear warheads. Kim described the system as a "super-powerful" weapon capable of annihilating enemies through sudden, high-accuracy precision strikes.

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The inspection comes as Pyongyang prepares for the 9th Party Congress set for early 2026. Analysts suggest that the North is likely to unveil a formal "conventional-nuclear integration" strategy. This follows a busy period for Kim, who recently inspected nuclear-powered submarine construction and oversaw various missile tests, including anti-air and cruise missiles.

Escalating Military Modernization

Kim was accompanied by top officials including Jo Chun-ryong, No Kwang-chol, and Kim Jong-sik. This high-level presence reflects the regime's priority on the munitions industry. Since the 2021 party congress, the North has aggressively pursued a list of high-tech weapons, including spy satellites and solid-fuel ICBMs. The focus on mass-producing MRLs suggests a move toward saturating regional missile defenses with high-volume, precision fire.