Pyongyang(The COW News Digital) North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has ordered a significant expansion in missile production and the construction of new weapons factories in 2026, underscoring Pyongyang’s continued focus on strengthening its military capabilities despite international pressure and sanctions.
According to international media reports, Kim Jong Un issued the directives while inspecting several arms manufacturing facilities. During the visits, he instructed officials and factory managers to prepare for what he described as a “busy and demanding year ahead,” stressing the need to meet the growing operational requirements of the country’s armed forces.
Kim emphasized that overall production capacity must be increased to ensure a steady supply of advanced weapons systems in line with military demand. He also ordered the establishment of new arms production facilities, signaling a long-term commitment to expanding North Korea’s defense industry infrastructure.
The reports said Kim Jong Un personally oversaw the test launch of a new type of high-altitude, long-range surface-to-air missile over the Sea of Japan. The test was presented by state media as a demonstration of the country’s improving air defense capabilities, particularly against what Pyongyang views as external military threats.
North Korea has repeatedly highlighted the development of missile and weapons systems as a key pillar of its national security strategy. In recent years, the country has conducted multiple missile tests, drawing condemnation from the United States, South Korea, Japan, and other members of the international community, who argue that such actions violate United Nations Security Council resolutions.
Kim Jong Un also linked the latest military push to upcoming political developments. He said new modernization and production plans would be formally presented at the next congress of the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea, expected to take place in early 2026. The gathering will be the party’s first major congress in nearly five years and is widely seen as a platform for outlining strategic priorities for the coming period.
Analysts believe the planned expansion of missile production reflects Pyongyang’s intention to further diversify and strengthen its weapons arsenal amid stalled diplomatic talks and ongoing regional tensions. The move is likely to heighten concerns among neighboring countries and Western powers, who have repeatedly urged North Korea to return to dialogue and abandon its nuclear and missile programs.
Despite economic challenges and international sanctions, North Korea has continued to allocate substantial resources to defense development. Kim Jong Un has maintained that a strong military is essential to safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and deterring perceived threats, a position that continues to shape Pyongyang’s domestic and foreign policy approach.
