Pyongyang: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has announced that the nation's air force is set to acquire "new strategic military assets" along with a "new important duty," as reported by the state-run Korean Central News Agency on Sunday. This statement was made during a celebration at Kalma Airport, marking the 59th anniversary of the Kil Yong Jo Hero Flying Group of the Second Air Wing, an event held to commemorate the founding anniversary of the Korean People's Army Air Force.
According to Anadolu Agency, Kim Jong Un emphasized the significant expectations placed on the air force by the Party and the country, particularly in its role within the nuclear war deterrent strategy. He noted that the air force is poised to play a crucial part in this regard, although he did not provide specific details about the new assets to be introduced.
Kim further articulated that the "confrontation in the sky" is fundamentally a battle of ideology and faith, rather than merely a contest of arms and equipment. He stressed that victory is determined by the pilots' indomitable spirit rather than the sophistication of modern fighters.
Earlier this year, in May, North Korea conducted its first live-fire air-to-air exercise with military aircraft, following the introduction of an airborne early warning and control aircraft system in March. These moves signal an increasing focus on enhancing the country's aerial capabilities.
In a notable appearance, Kim's daughter and successor, Ju-ae, attended the event, marking her first public appearance since she joined her father on a visit to China in early September for a military parade in Beijing.