Only months after its commissioning on 25 April 2025, North Korea’s most advanced surface warship, the missile destroyer Choe Hyon (51), has reappeared with major upgrades to its weapons and sensor suites.
The 142-meter destroyer was showcased during the Defence Development 2025 exhibition on 5 October in Pyongyang, marking the 80th anniversary of the Workers’ Party of Korea. The display highlighted six months of post-launch modifications and precedes the ship’s planned redeployment to the east coast next year.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un toured the ship at Nampho Port, accompanied by senior military officials, naval personnel and other exhibition participants. Official images revealed surprisingly modern interiors, including the combat information center (CIC), bridge, and crew accommodations, featuring multi-function consoles and large touchscreens — a rare glimpse into North Korea’s naval design.
Weapon and Sensor Upgrades
The forward vertical launch system (VLS) was reconfigured from 32 small cells to 12 larger ones, matching the aft launcher, reducing total cells from 74 to 68. The aft VLS superstructure was integrated with the hull for a smoother profile, likely eliminating rear UAV storage.
The fire-control radars were replaced with circular units resembling China’s Type 347, and electronic warfare sensors were repositioned along the superstructure. Notably, all weapons and sensors had been tested in April, raising questions about whether the initial setup was temporary, or if the VLS is modular to allow upgrades.
With three more Choe Hyon-class destroyers under construction, the ship represents a significant addition to the KPA Navy’s surface fleet. For a detailed analysis of its armament and capabilities, see “North Korea Commissions Heavily Armed Missile Destroyer ‘Choe Hyon’.”
