North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has overseen a series of military activities, including the ground test of a new solid-fuel rocket engine, inspections of special operations forces training, and trials of a new main battle tank, according to state media KCNA.
KCNA reported that the newly developed solid-fuel rocket engine, made with carbon-fibre materials, has a maximum thrust of 2,500 kilonewtons.
The ground test forms part of North Korea's new five-year defence development plan, which aims to strengthen the country's strategic strike capabilities. Kim described the test as a major step forward in modernising the country's strategic forces.
Solid-fuel technology is seen as a critical advancement, as it allows missiles to be launched more quickly and with greater survivability compared to traditional liquid-fuel systems.
The latest developments come amid a broader push by North Korea to upgrade both its missile arsenal and conventional forces despite ongoing international sanctions.
In recent months, Pyongyang has carried out multiple weapons demonstrations and military inspections, signalling an accelerated effort to enhance combat readiness and technological capabilities.
In a separate inspection, Kim visited a special operations forces training base, where he stressed the importance of rigorous peacetime training to prepare for modern warfare.
He also outlined plans to reorganise the country's special operations units, indicating a shift towards more flexible and capable elite forces.
KCNA also reported that Kim attended tests of a new main battle tank.
He was quoted as saying the tank's active protection system could intercept nearly all existing anti-tank weapons, claiming it to be unmatched globally. Such claims, however, could not be independently verified.
At a ruling party congress in February, Kim unveiled a new five-year plan that reaffirmed the continued development of nuclear weapons while calling for a broad modernisation of the military.
Analysts say North Korea is increasingly focusing on integrating its missile forces with conventional capabilities, drawing lessons from recent global conflicts.
South Korea and the United States have said they are closely monitoring North Korea's weapons development activities.
The latest tests and inspections are likely to heighten regional tensions as Pyongyang continues to advance its military capabilities.
(with inputs from Reuters)