Kim Jong Un Leads North Korea Missile Test, Says Opponents 'Cannot Survive'

North Korea has claimed to have tested a new lightweight multi-purpose missile launch system and a dual tactical cruise missile weapon system, with leader Kim Jong Un personally overseeing the exercises. Kim stated that the country’s military strength has increased, with its main weapon systems showing significant technological progress. ‘It is a critical requirement for our military operations to have sufficient destructive power to theoretically make any opposing force unable to survive, except by luck,’ he said, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

South Korean reports indicated North Korea fired several projectiles on Tuesday (26 May 2026), including ballistic missiles off its western coast, which travelled approximately 80 kilometres (50 miles). Analysts suggest Pyongyang’s recent missile tests reflect an effort to capitalise on eroding global norms to enhance its nuclear standing.

‘Essential ultra-high defence science and technology has been introduced into practical weapons testing,’ Kim remarked following the successful trials. KCNA-released images showed a missile launching from a mobile platform with bright exhaust flames and billowing smoke, alongside photos of Kim standing near the launcher accompanied by military officials.

North Korea faces multiple UN sanctions prohibiting nuclear weapons development and ballistic missile technology use, yet it has repeatedly breached these restrictions. Tuesday’s launch marked the first in 37 days and the eighth test this year. In April, Pyongyang conducted a ballistic missile test to verify cluster munition warhead characteristics and strength.