North Korea’s Leader Kim Jong Un Drives New Main Battle Tank
North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un recently oversaw military training exercises, driving a “new-type main battle tank” as reported by state media. Here are the details of the event:
Kim Jong Un’s Military Inspection
- Kim Jong Un wore a black leather jacket and saluted camouflage-uniformed troops.
- He observed live-fire “training march” exercises from a field command post, accompanied by top generals.
Kim Jong Un Takes Control of the Tank
After reviewing the tank crews, Kim took charge of the situation:
- He mounted the new-type main battle tank and drove it himself, demonstrating its striking power.
Response to Joint Military Drills
The KCNA report coincided with the conclusion of South Korea and the United States’ annual Freedom Shield exercises, which included missile interception drills and air assaults. North Korea has historically criticized such joint drills, considering them as preparations for invasion.
Kim Jong Un’s Emphasis
Kim expressed satisfaction with the tank’s performance and highlighted the importance of tank crews in modern warfare. He emphasized the necessity of conducting realistic war simulations through intensive exercises.
Ongoing Tensions
Recent events have escalated tensions in the region:
- Pyongyang warned of consequences for the joint drills between Seoul and Washington.
- Kim guided a large-scale artillery drill targeting South Korea’s capital.
South Korea’s Response
South Korean Defense Minister Shin Won-sik visited the army’s Special Warfare Command during the drills, focusing on mastering advanced combat skills and preparedness for potential attacks from North Korea.
As the situation evolves, the dynamics between North and South Korea remain tense, with ongoing military activities and heightened rhetoric.