North Korea said it conducted a long-range strategic cruise missile exercise designed to verify the operational readiness of its missile forces, framing the drill as a practical test of counter-offensive capability. The launch, disclosed on Monday, Dec. 29, 2025, was presented by state media as a controlled validation of procedures rather than a demonstration aimed abroad.

According to the Korean Central News Agency, the exercise took place on Sunday and involved long-range missile sub-units. The stated objectives included confirming firing procedures, maneuverability, and the reliability of what KCNA described as a core strategic weapon system. The missiles flew along predetermined trajectories before striking designated maritime targets, the agency said, without disclosing ranges, speeds, or the number of missiles involved.

“Great Satisfaction” and Deterrence

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un personally oversaw the drill, a detail KCNA emphasized to underline command-level involvement. KCNA quoted Kim as expressing “great satisfaction” with the outcome of the launches, signaling that the exercise met internal performance benchmarks.

West Sea Flight Profiles

KCNA said the missiles traveled over the West Sea, following preset flight paths before impact. The choice of test area and the use of predetermined trajectories were cited as part of a technical verification process focused on accuracy and control. No damage or exclusion zones were mentioned in the account.