North Korea’s New Warship Launch Fails in Embarrassing Setback

North Korea's ambitious naval modernization plans have suffered a major blow after the failed launch of its newly built 5,000-ton destroyer at the eastern coastal shipyard in Chongjin. Satellite images shared by a British defense think tank have revealed serious damage to the warship, confirming widespread speculation that the launch did not go as planned.

The images, taken on May 22, show the massive warship stranded in a precarious position. Its bow is firmly grounded on land while the stern hangs awkwardly in the water, partially submerged. A large blue tarp covers parts of the hull, likely in an attempt to either conceal the damage or protect it from further deterioration.

North Korean state media, through the Rodong Sinmun, openly acknowledged the disaster, labeling it a “serious, intolerable accident.” Leader Kim Jong Un was present during the launch attempt and was reported to have described the event as both a “grave incident” and a “criminal act,” highlighting the scale of the disappointment at the highest level of leadership.

The cause of the failure appears to be a malfunction in the launch sled system, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). The stern of the ship reportedly slid into the water too early, breaching the hull and upsetting the ship’s balance, leaving the bow stuck on the launch platform.

Experts reviewing the situation believe that the warship has likely taken on water and suffered internal damage. A naval construction analyst noted that the tilt of the vessel suggests flooding of compartments, which may have ruined vital systems such as propulsion and electronics—making the ship effectively unusable in its current state.

Despite the scale of the accident, North Korea has not released any official photos of the incident but has confirmed that Kim Jong Un has ordered urgent repairs. He has reportedly instructed that the warship be restored before a major political meeting in June, underlining its symbolic importance to the regime.

However, recovery efforts may not be easy. Analysts suggest that North Korea lacks the heavy-duty maritime equipment needed for such an operation. Lifting the warship would require powerful cranes, barges, and technical expertise that North Korea likely does not possess domestically. The country may need to seek outside help, though sanctions and isolation complicate such options.

This failed launch marks a significant setback in Pyongyang’s efforts to showcase a more modern and capable navy. The destroyer, believed to be one of North Korea’s largest surface ships, has drawn attention from military analysts and neighboring countries. Its failure to launch not only delays the country’s naval ambitions but also undermines the image of strength that Kim Jong Un’s regime often tries to project during periods of heightened regional tension.