Kim Jong Un Orders Massive Missile Production Boost, New Factories by 2026

• Kim Jong Un ordered a sharp increase in missile production and new factory construction by 2026 to bolster North Korea's "war deterrent."
• The move aims to meet the growing demands of the armed forces and expand overall production capacity for munitions.
• North Korea's military ties with Russia are deepening, with Pyongyang supplying arms to Moscow in exchange for financial aid, military technology, and other supplies.
• Analysts suggest North Korea, having achieved ICBM objectives, may now focus on developing and exporting medium/intermediate range missiles to Russia.
• Kim also toured a nuclear submarine facility, vowed to counter South Korea's naval plans, and oversaw a new anti-air missile test.

Why It Matters: North Korea is rapidly expanding its military production and capabilities, fueled by ties with Russia.