North Korea’s Kim Jong-un set to signal stronger nuclear deterrence posture at congress

North Korea, led by Kim Jong-un, is expected to use the upcoming Workers’ Party congress to announce plans to strengthen its nuclear deterrence capabilities, signaling a potential escalation towards large-scale nuclear retaliation against the US. Analysts anticipate Pyongyang will unveil plans for the combat deployment of nuclear weapons, including intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) capable of reaching American cities. Kim foreshadowed this move by stating he would announce next-phase plans to bolster the country’s nuclear war deterrent. Experts predict North Korea will continue developing ICBM re-entry technology and multiple independently targetable re-entry vehicles. This announcement follows Kim's oversight of a test-firing of an upgraded large-calibre multiple rocket launcher system, which he deemed significant for improving strategic deterrence.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un will announce plans to expand the country's nuclear arsenal at the upcoming Communist Party congress, the first such meeting since 2021. The announcement follows a recent series of missile tests, including a large-calibre multiple rocket launcher system, overseen by Kim. The tests, which involved missiles fired towards the Sea of Japan, are intended to improve North Korea's strategic deterrent capabilities and demonstrate the ability to conduct specific attacks. The governing party is also expected to unveil a five-year development plan for both defense and the economy at the congress, which will take place in the coming weeks. Kim has warned that the new plans will inflict "excruciating mental agony" on North Korea's enemies.

North Korea launched several short-range ballistic missiles into the sea off its coast, according to South Korean and Japanese authorities. The missiles, launched from an area northeast of Pyongyang, flew approximately 217 miles. This marks North Korea's first weapons test since early January, following tests of hypersonic missiles, long-range cruise missiles, and anti-air missiles in December. The launches occurred ahead of a major political meeting of the ruling party, the first full congress in five years. The meeting, for which Kim Jong Un has been preparing, is expected to establish new political and economic priorities as the U.S. and South Korea seek renewed talks with North Korea.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw test flights of hypersonic missiles on January 5, 2026, citing a "geopolitical crisis" and "complicated international events" as justification for bolstering the country's nuclear deterrent. The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) confirmed the missile drills, which involved a hypersonic weapon system and were intended to examine its readiness and enhance missile troops' firepower. The missiles traveled approximately 1,000km over the sea east of North Korea, successfully hitting their targets. Kim emphasized the importance of upgrading military means, particularly offensive weapon systems, to maintain a strong nuclear deterrent. The launch occurred hours before the South Korean President's scheduled summit with the Chinese President.

On January 4, 2026, North Korea launched multiple ballistic missiles into the sea off its east coast. The missiles traveled approximately 900km, according to South Korea's military. The launch coincided with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung's state visit to China. Japan condemned the launches as a threat to regional and international peace. The US stated the launches did not pose an immediate threat. The last time North Korea tested ballistic missiles was on November 7. Prior to the launch, Kim Jong Un called for increased production of tactical guided weapons and visited weapons factories.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has instructed officials to increase the production of missiles and artillery shells and to construct additional munitions factories. The announcement, reported by KCNA on December 26, 2025, emphasized the importance of the missile and shell production sector in strengthening North Korea's war deterrent. Kim's directive included expanding overall production capacity to meet the demands of the armed forces. This call for increased missile production follows Kim's recent visit to a shipyard where he inspected the construction of a purported nuclear-powered submarine capable of launching surface-to-air missiles. Experts suggest the submarine is equipped with a nuclear reactor and nearing completion.