(North Korea) Leader Kim Visits Tank Factory, Expresses Pride in Homegrown Armor

(LEAD) NK leader-tank factory

SEOUL, May 4 (Yonhap) -- North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has inspected a tank factory and expressed satisfaction over the upgraded structural design of indigenous tanks, while emphasizing the need to modernize the military with advanced tanks, the North's state media reported Sunday.

According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim examined the factory’s production status, modernization efforts, and advancements in executing research tasks connected to key tank technologies.

The identity or whereabouts of the plant were not revealed, nor was the timing of his inspection disclosed, simply referring to it as a significant tank manufacturing facility.

"To replace the armoured weapons of the last century in our army with latest tanks and armoured vehicles is the most important issue in the building of armed forces and modernization of the army," the KCNA quoted Kim as saying during the field guidance.

Kim stated that establishing an effective armored force is unattainable without accurately defining the military role and development trajectory of tanks in contemporary combat scenarios and revising the approach to tank design. He shared these insights while outlining the strategy for upgrading tanks and associated responsibilities.

He likewise highlighted the necessity of developing substantial capabilities for manufacturing advanced tanks and self-propelled artillery pieces, along with improving the entire fleet of armored vehicles within a brief period. He characterized this as a crucial mission for the ruling party to achieve what he termed "a second revolution in armor capability."

The KCNA reported that Kim expressed "satisfaction" with the upgraded structural design of indigenous tanks and the composition of their firepower system, saying that they demonstrated scientific accuracy and reliability for a high-thrust engine.

According to the KCNA, Kim observed that an opportunity for more development-focused prospects has emerged in the tank sector. The party’s strategy to “continuously refine” key technologies crucial for main battle tanks is being implemented via consistent progress in both development and manufacturing achievements.

pbr@yna.co.kr

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