North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has been photographed firing a new sniper rifle during a special forces training session at a military base.
According to state media, the 41-year-old inspected the weapon, which is to be supplied to special units and was developed using the country’s own technology.
The report highlighted his satisfaction with the rifle’s performance and capabilities.
Mr Kim appeared to point toward a bullseye on a target, but it remains unclear if it was from a shot he fired.
Kim Jong Un points to a target hit during military training. Pic: Reuters
During his visit, Mr Kim observed from an observation post as heavily camouflaged troops demonstrated their skills with firearms and combat techniques, such as breaking bricks. This show of military might came in response to joint US-South Korea exercises, which North Korea has objected to.
In March, Kim Jong Un’s sister, threatened retaliatory actions against the US over what she called heightened provocations, including the deployment of a US aircraft carrier to South Korea.
She suggested a likely escalation in weapons testing and aggressive stance against the US.
Mr Kim emphasized the importance of enhancing the capabilities of special forces as part of the country’s military strategy.
Kim Jong Un at a military training base in North Korea. Pic: Reuters
Kim Jong Un inspects military activities in North Korea. Pic: Reuters
“Strengthening the special operation forces is a key component of our current army-building strategy,” stated Kim Jong Un, as reported by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). No specific details about these strategic measures were provided.
It is known that Pyongyang has reportedly sent special forces to Russia to fight in the Ukraine conflict, as stated by South Korea.
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Analysts suggest that North Korea could benefit from sending weapons and troops to get combat experience in battlefield scenarios, although significant losses have been cited by Ukraine.
Initially, Moscow and Pyongyang denied reports of such deployments; however, Russian President Vladimir Putin later did not deny the presence of North Korean troops in Russia, and a North Korean official confirmed that any deployment of troops would be lawful.
