North Korean leader Kim Jong-un guided test-firings of multiple firepower systems on Thursday as part of efforts to modernize the country’s artillery and missile forces, the official Korean Central News Agency reported on Friday.

According to KCNA, the tests involved an upgraded 240mm 24-tube multiple rocket launcher system, tactical ballistic missiles, and extended-range 155mm self-propelled howitzer rounds.

The upgraded rocket system features automated fire control and autonomous precision guidance, with its range extended to 90 kilometers.

The tactical ballistic missiles were equipped with specialized warheads designed for “lethal strikes” against key enemy targets, including airfields, ports, and power facilities.

The test of the improved artillery rounds, which have a range of 65 kilometers, was also described by Pyongyang as holding “significant military importance.”

Kim, speaking in his capacity as general secretary of the Workers’ Party and chairman of the State Affairs Commission, said the test-firings marked an important opportunity to demonstrate the “great technological progress” he had achieved in transforming the firepower posture of the nation’s armed forces and in developing weapon systems toward automation, longer ranges, and ultra-precision.

Kim stressed that North Korea’s defense policy “is not merely about strengthening defense capabilities” but is aimed at “further strengthening the lethal, destructive offensive posture so that no enemy dares to invade,” adding that this reflected the “defensive concept in military building and operational practice.”