North Korea showcases new battle tanks during major military drills

Friday 20 March 2026 - 16:40

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has overseen large-scale military exercises featuring newly developed battle tanks, as the country continues to highlight advancements in its defense capabilities.

According to state media, the drills took place at a training site near the capital, Pyongyang, and focused on coordinated offensive operations. The exercises brought together infantry units, armored vehicles, and drone systems in simulated battlefield scenarios aimed at breaching enemy defenses.

The training included the use of reconnaissance and strike drones targeting mock command centers and anti-tank positions. Ground forces advanced under synchronized fire support, demonstrating integrated combat tactics between different military branches.

During the drills, Kim praised the performance of the participating units and drew particular attention to a new generation of main battle tanks. He described the equipment as highly advanced in terms of firepower, mobility, and defensive systems, claiming it performed effectively in simulated interceptions of incoming threats.

State reports also noted the presence of Kim Ju-ae, who has increasingly appeared alongside the leader at official events. Her participation in the exercises has been interpreted by observers as a sign of her growing public profile.

The North Korean leadership emphasized the importance of intensifying realistic combat training and accelerating the modernization of ground forces. Analysts say such displays are intended both to strengthen internal military readiness and to signal technological progress to the international community.