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North Korea, disaster at launch of new warship: Kim furious
5,000-ton destroyer is damaged during launch. North Korean leader accuses ‘criminal negligence’ and orders flash repairs
The launching of the new North Korean warship turned into a resounding disaster, triggering the ire of leader Kim Jong Un, who was present at the ceremony at the Chongjin shipyard. The 5,000-ton destroyer, designed to strengthen North Korea’s fleet, suffered serious damage due to a malfunction in the launch mechanism, which caused the stern to fall into the water prematurely, stranding the bow on the quay and tilting the entire structure on its side.
The news was confirmed by KCNA, the official North Korean agency, in a rare admission of technical failure. Kim called the incident ‘a criminal act’ and a ‘blow to national dignity’, promising harsh consequences for those responsible, named in several entities involved in the design and construction: the Department of Munitions Industry, Kim Chaek University of Technology and the Central Ship Design Bureau.
According to the South Korean military, the damaged ship may be a version of the new destroyer Choe Hyon, publicly unveiled in April as the spearhead of the North Korean fleet. State media did not release pictures of the accident and did not mention any casualties, while Kim ordered repairs in record time so that he could present the ship as early as the Party Central Committee plenary scheduled for June.
Last month, Kim had been photographed with his daughter Kim Ju-ae in front of the Choe Hyon, announcing his intention to upgrade the navy with nuclear armaments, and initiating tests on the unit’s combat system. However, according to military analysts quoted by CNN, the damage done would make it unlikely that Kim would meet the new deadlines.
A severe blow to the regime’s image and military propaganda, which could also have internal political repercussions in view of the next party summit.
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(Photo: © AndKronos)
