In a significant display of military power, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervised the test-firing of a newly enhanced 240mm multiple rocket launcher, featuring an advanced "guiding system," according to state media reports on Wednesday. This move comes just three months after the regime announced plans to outfit its armed forces with this upgraded artillery capable of targeting the South Korean capital, Seoul.

As tensions rise, North Korea has strengthened its military collaboration with Russia. Analysts suggest this could signal an increase in production of artillery and cruise missiles, potentially intended for support in Russia’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The United States and South Korea have accused Pyongyang of supplying munitions for this war, a claim the North has dismissed as "absurd."

The Korean Central News Agency highlighted that the latest iteration of the multiple rocket launcher boasts improvements in maneuverability, concentrated firing capabilities, and overall effectiveness. Specific enhancements include a new guidance system, increased controllability, and greater destructive power.

During the test, Kim Jong Un also outlined a key policy aimed at the production of new artillery systems and their distribution to military units, although details remained sparse. This announcement follows the North's recent introduction of a "suicide drone," designed to crash into enemy targets, functioning similarly to guided missiles.

In February, North Korea claimed it had developed a new control system for its rocket launchers that would significantly enhance its defense capabilities. The updated equipment is expected to be deployed within the Korean People's Army between 2024 and 2026.

Experts note that North Korea's older MRLs, dating back to the 1980s, had limitations in explosive power and precision, making it challenging to compete with the firepower of US-South Korean forces. As a response to this disparity and the overwhelming air superiority of its adversaries, Pyongyang is focused on expanding the range and guidance capabilities of its artillery to quickly target South Korean airfields.

Inter-Korean relations have reached a new low, with North Korea labeling the South its "principal enemy" and closing down agencies aimed at reunification, even threatening military action over minor territorial disputes.

This latest missile test coincides with the annual Ulchi Freedom Shield joint military exercises conducted by South Korea and the US, which are designed to counteract the nuclear threat from the North. Historically, North Korea has reacted angrily to such drills, viewing them as rehearsals for invasion.

In a statement, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff affirmed their commitment to proceed with the scheduled military exercises while closely monitoring North Korean activities, warning that any provocations would be met with a decisive and overwhelming response.