Overview

• Kim Jong-un's latest factory inspections confirm a fourfold increase in annual artillery shell production, nearly doubling the previous peak output.
• North Korea's munitions factories have undergone significant modernization under the Second Economy Commission, with Kim expressing satisfaction at their advancements.
• Kim emphasized the importance of further boosting shell production to enhance the combat readiness and efficiency of North Korea's military forces.
• Machine-building factories are being developed as pivotal hubs for producing advanced equipment, including high-speed, precision, and multifunctional machinery for defense and other industries.
• Intelligence reports indicate ongoing transfers of millions of shells and personnel to Russia, securing economic benefits and advanced military technology in violation of UN sanctions.