North Korean state media reported Thursday that leader Kim Jong Un participated in a military training exercise involving the country's newest main battle tank.
The leader was accompanied by his young daughter, who has become a frequent fixture at high-profile military events.
During the tank crew training match, Kim Jong Un personally operated one of the new armored vehicles.
Images released by the Korean Central News Agency show Kim in the driver’s seat of a tank moving across a training field.
The training was designed to inspect the combat capabilities of tank crews and familiarize them with tactical missions.
Kim expressed satisfaction with the striking power and maneuverability of the new tank model.
He reportedly described the vehicle as the most powerful in the world and urged his troops to enhance their fighting spirits.
The state media report did not specify the technical details of the new tank.
The drills took place as the United States and South Korea concluded their annual Freedom Shield joint military exercises.
North Korea has long characterized such drills as rehearsals for a potential invasion of its territory.
The presence of Kim’s daughter at the tank training follows a series of public appearances at military sites over the past year.
Analysts suggest these appearances may be intended to signal her status as a potential successor.
South Korean defense officials stated they are monitoring North Korea's military activities and the development of new weapon systems.
The latest exercise follows previous rounds of artillery drills conducted earlier this month.
Kim emphasized the importance of the role played by tank units in modern warfare.
He instructed the military to conduct intensive exercises simulating real combat situations to ensure readiness for any potential conflict.
International observers noted that the timing of these exercises often coincides with regional tensions.
The use of a new tank highlights Pyongyang's efforts to modernize its conventional military hardware despite international sanctions.
The daughter’s inclusion in official media coverage continues a trend of emphasizing military strength through family lineage.
No official title for the daughter has been provided by North Korean state outlets.
Transparency notes
Published: Mar 20, 2026. Last updated: Mar 20, 2026.
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