North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has unveiled the deployment of 50 new launch vehicles for nuclear-capable short-range missiles, highlighting Pyongyang’s expanding military capabilities ahead of a key ruling Workers’ Party congress.

State media showed rows of launcher trucks lined up near the April 25th House of Culture, a venue used for previous party congresses. The Korean Central News Agency said the vehicles support 600mm multiple rocket launcher systems, which experts say can function similarly to short-range ballistic missiles due to guided delivery and self-propelled thrust.

In a speech, Kim said the launchers feature artificial intelligence and advanced guidance technology designed to carry out a “strategic mission,” implying nuclear capability. He also signalled that the upcoming congress would outline further plans to strengthen the country’s nuclear-armed forces.

In a separate statement, Kim’s sister Kim Yo Jong acknowledged a South Korean minister’s apology over alleged drone incursions but warned that Pyongyang would respond forcefully if such incidents recur. She said border surveillance would be tightened against the “enemy” South.

Relations between the two Koreas have remained largely frozen since 2019 after nuclear talks between Kim and former U.S. President Donald Trump collapsed over sanctions.