North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for increased shell production to meet the demands of modern warfare, according to a report from state media KCNA on Saturday (June 14). During a recent inspection of military industrial facilities, Kim visited metal pressing and assembly lines, where he reviewed the progress of shell production for the first half of 2025.

KCNA reported that Kim emphasized the need to strengthen and expand production capabilities. He urged improvements in efficiency and the adoption of unmanned and automated systems to enhance output. “To produce new and powerful shells that align with the needs of modern warfare, we must reinforce our manufacturing infrastructure, rationalize our production processes, and steadily raise the level of automation,” Kim said.

This inspection is part of Kim’s broader push to modernize North Korea’s military industry. In recent months, his public activities have focused heavily on military advancements and strengthening relations with Russia. Despite rising tensions in the region, North Korean state media has largely refrained from criticizing South Korea, which recently elected a new liberal president.

In a related development, a May report by the UN’s Multilateral Sanctions Monitoring Team revealed that North Korea has supplied Russia with more than 20,000 containers of munitions. This deepening military cooperation has raised international concerns, especially as global scrutiny increases over arms transfers involving conflict zones.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.