Kim Jong-un stated that the central focus of North Korea's military strategy lies in the strengthening of its nuclear armed forces, which he described as the "backbone" of the country's defense and a key element in its strategy of war deterrence. He emphasized that North Korea will persist in exercising its rights as a nuclear state and that this is a firm and unshakeable stance of the country's leadership.
"We will continue to enhance and fortify our state's nuclear armed forces, which serve as the cornerstone of our armed forces in implementing our strategy of war deterrence and war conduct," Kim said. "We will consistently exercise the rights of a nuclear state, and this is the unchanging will of our party."
Highlighting the importance of legal frameworks, Kim emphasized that North Korea has solidified its status as a nuclear power within its domestic laws. He also stressed that the country's nuclear expansion plans are being implemented in line with the development of scientific and technological infrastructure.
"We plan to strengthen the state’s nuclear armed forces every year. We will make every effort to increase the number of nuclear weapons, expand the means and spaces for their application," he said.
According to Kim Jong-un, North Korea intends to maintain the constant readiness of its nuclear forces, conducting tests and exercises to ensure the effectiveness of its capabilities. He warned that the country must make it clear to its adversaries that any military action against North Korea would result in "terrible" retaliatory strikes.
Kim also revealed that North Korea plans to modernize its strike capabilities and the nuclear weapons management systems, enhancing the combat readiness of its nuclear forces through exercises and improving its crisis response system in the event of a nuclear conflict.
The North Korean leader noted that advancements in military technology have already expanded the country's nuclear retaliation options, including a more coordinated nuclear weapons deployment system and flexible methods of utilizing nuclear arms.