North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the testing of an upgraded large-caliber multiple-launch rocket system designed for specific target strikes. The move is part of Pyongyang’s efforts to enhance its nuclear deterrence capabilities, according to state media reports on Wednesday.

Kim stated that the upgraded weapon system allows North Korea to “use its strongest capabilities in the most precise and effective manner, thus enabling its application in specific strikes,” according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). He did not specify the type of strike intended for the rockets.

A day earlier, South Korea and Japan reported several short-range ballistic missiles launched from northern Pyongyang toward waters off the northeastern coast. North Korea confirmed four rockets hit their targets at a distance of 358.5 kilometers from the launch site.

“All parameters have been improved to maximize strike capability, including mobility, intelligence, and rocket firing accuracy,” Kim said, as cited by KCNA.

The report did not provide detailed information on the upgraded technology but noted that the weapons feature “independently guided precision flight systems capable of ignoring external interference.”

“As I have always emphasized, these activities are clearly aimed at enhancing our nuclear war deterrence,” Kim stressed.

The move comes ahead of a party congress scheduled in the coming weeks, where Kim typically outlines the country’s five-year policy direction. At the last congress in 2021, the ruling Workers’ Party highlighted nuclear submarine production as a key weapons project.

Kim said he will “present the next steps to further strengthen the country’s nuclear deterrence” at the upcoming party meeting.

The latest military maneuvers follow a visit to Seoul earlier this week by U.S. Deputy Secretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby, who praised South Korea as a capable ally ready to take a larger role in national defense.

The recently released U.S. National Defense Strategy encourages South Korea to play a leading role in deterring North Korea, as the Trump administration prioritizes protecting U.S. territory.

This is North Korea’s second ballistic missile launch this year, following accusations that South Korea violated its airspace with a drone earlier this month. The South Korean government denied involvement and is investigating whether the unmanned vehicle was operated by civilians. Following the first launch in early January, North Korea also claimed to have tested a hypersonic missile.