North Korean leader Kim Jong-un unveiled a new 600 mm multiple rocket launcher system on 18/2 at a ceremony in Pyongyang. Kim praised the system as "unique in the world," stating it is suitable for "a special attack to fulfill a strategic mission." This phrase is often used by North Korea to refer to a nuclear weapon strike.

Kim Jong-un emphasized the system's purpose is to "deter adversaries," though he did not name specific countries. He described the weapon as "truly wonderful and powerful."

Combat vehicles of the 600 mm multiple rocket launcher system lined up in front of the April 25 House of Culture in Pyongyang. *Photo: Rodong Sinmun*

The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) first revealed this multiple rocket launcher system in a report in 12/2025. At that time, Kim Jong-un visited a factory producing heavy weapons for key military units. The new system's combat vehicle features 5 launchers, one less than a multiple rocket launcher displayed during a parade in Pyongyang in 10/2025. Its front axle has also been moved to a position below the driver's cabin, indicating a complete change in weight distribution.

Observers believe this system can fire rockets equipped with Hwasan-31 tactical nuclear warheads, with an explosive yield equivalent to 4,000-10,000 tons of TNT. North Korea considers artillery bombardment with high-density firepower a core strategy in the event of conflict.

A 2020 report by the RAND Corporation in the United States highlighted the potential danger of North Korean artillery. It stated that conventional artillery could cause 10,000 casualties within one hour if targeting major South Korean cities like Seoul. This figure, however, does not account for heavy multiple rocket launchers carrying nuclear warheads, underscoring the increased threat posed by the newly unveiled system.

Vu Hoang (According to KCNA, AFP)