North Korean leader Kim Jong Un observed the construction of a submarine and oversaw the test-firing of long-range surface-to-air missiles yesterday. The test near east coast, aimed at assessing the nuclear-armed country’s strategic capabilities, which destroys targets in the air from 200 km away. The submarine project is part of the ruling party’s effort to modernise North Korea’s navy, one of five key policies the party is pushing to develop the nation’s military capabilities.

Earlier, Kim observed construction at another site on an 8,700 ton nuclear powered submarine capable of launching surface-to-air missiles. It did not identify the location or date of his visit. South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff confirmed the missile test occurred at 5 PM IST. The South Korean military had been aware of launch preparations and was ready for it.