North Korea conducts drills with long-range artillery: 'We sent a message to South Korea'

12PUNTO FOREIGN NEWS

North Korea showcased thousands of weapons on Thursday that it could use to strike the South, including long-range artillery and defense systems.

North Korea's artillery drills took place at a time of heightened tension on the Korean Peninsula, following the start of the 'Freedom Shield' exercises by the US and South Korea, which the South Korean military stated would focus on deterring North Korea's nuclear threats.

The North Korean Ministry of Defense stated on Monday that it characterized the 11-day joint US-South Korea exercise as 'provocative' and 'reckless,' announcing that North Korean forces would monitor 'adventurous actions' and conduct 'responsible military activities.' According to North Korea's state media outlet, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), the live-fire exercise followed a recent call by leader Kim Jong Un for the military to increase drills.

Source: KCNA (Korean Central News Agency)

Thursday's artillery drill was the second exercise conducted by the North this week, following ground force maneuvers earlier in the week involving infiltration into enemy territory.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un observed both exercises and was seen in photos released by state media.

KCNA announced the drill with the phrase, “We sent a message to South Korea.”

In its report, KCNA stated, "The exercise began with a show-of-force fire by long-range artillery sub-units near the border, which place the enemy's capital within striking range and are important for war deterrence."

According to the report, Kim emphasized that ‘it is important for all artillery sub-units to prepare for regular combat mobilization so that they can take the initiative with ruthless and rapid strikes the moment they enter a real war.’

News Source: 12punto