Pyongyang: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for an expansion of the country's missile and shell production capacity during his inspections of major munitions industry enterprises, as reported by state-run media on Friday. Kim's visits were accompanied by senior officials, emphasizing the modernization of factories and the reinforcement of technical foundations to meet the operational needs of the Korean People's Army.

According to Anadolu Agency, officials briefed Kim on the achievements of the missile and shell production sector projected for 2025, including expected output in the fourth quarter. However, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) did not provide details regarding the locations of the factories or the timing of these visits.

Kim stressed the necessity of reinforcing the technical foundations in a balanced manner to further expand overall production capacity. He also highlighted the need for a development-oriented production plan for 2026 to meet the future operational requirements of the country's missile and artillery forces.

The North Korean leader underscored the importance of modernizing the munitions industry through the creation of new enterprises and upgrades to existing factories. Kim noted that missile and shell production plays a central role in strengthening the country's war deterrence capabilities.

Additionally, KCNA reported on Thursday that Kim inspected an under-construction 8,700-ton nuclear-powered strategic guided missile submarine. He described South Korea's plans to develop nuclear-powered submarines in collaboration with the US as an 'offensive act' and a threat to regional stability.