A failed display of North Korean naval power has put Kim Jong Un’s leadership under a rare public spotlight, with satellite images revealing an embarrassing disaster at the hands of his military’s own engineers.

According to Fox News, new satellite photos show a 5,000-ton North Korean destroyer lying mangled and half-submerged at the port of Chongjin, shrouded in a blue tarp after a botched launch in front of top officials.

The warship, intended to showcase North Korea’s growing military might, instead became a symbol of technical failure and leadership frustration, with Kim Jong Un reportedly “fuming” over what state media called a “serious accident.” The embarrassing setback was captured by Maxar Technologies’ satellite imagery, which documented both the pristine vessel before the launch and its aftermath.

Kim Jong Un’s anger erupts

Kim Jong Un’s reaction to the failed launch was swift and severe, as North Korean state media reported his open fury directed toward military officials, scientists, and shipyard operators. He labeled the incident a “criminal act caused by absolute carelessness, irresponsibility and unscientific empiricism,” signaling that those responsible may face harsh consequences.

According to reports, Kim’s anger was not limited to behind closed doors. He demanded immediate repairs to the destroyer and insisted that everything must be completed before the upcoming meeting of the communist Working Party in June. The dictator, well-known for his secretive and often brutal rule, warned that the “irresponsibility of the relevant officials” would be investigated at the party’s gathering.

This rare moment of public embarrassment for the regime has led to questions about the state of North Korea’s military-industrial capabilities and Kim’s grip on power. Critics note that Kim’s fierce response is aimed at preserving his image of control and competence as the regime faces growing pressure both internally and abroad.

Launch failure shakes regime

The failed launch unfolded at the northeastern port of Chongjin, where the destroyer—one of North Korea’s largest—was to be unveiled as a testament to the country’s technological progress. Instead, mechanical failure during the launch process sent the warship into a disastrous tailspin, with its hull crushed and its stern left partially submerged in the harbor.

Satellite images published by Maxar Technologies clearly show the extent of the damage, with the warship concealed under a blue tarp in an apparent attempt to hide the scale of the disaster from the public and foreign observers. Prior to the launch, the destroyer had been displayed in pristine condition, ready for its first mission.

State media coverage of the incident, while candid in describing Kim’s outrage, has been less forthcoming about the specific technical failures that led to the accident. Outside observers say this secrecy is typical of the regime, which often tries to control the narrative around sensitive military issues. The failed launch, however, was too big to hide, given the satellite imagery now circulating globally.

North Korea’s military ambitions

The failed destroyer launch comes at a time when Kim Jong Un has been ramping up North Korea’s military ambitions, including claims of developing a nuclear submarine and testing AI-powered “suicide drones.” In March, Kim personally oversaw trials of unmanned explosive drones, calling for increased production to counter what he describes as Western aggression.

North Korea’s show of force has not been limited to military hardware. In a major development since the Korean War, an estimated 15,000 North Korean troops were reportedly sent to Russia to support its war in Ukraine, according to South Korean officials. Of those, 600 are said to have been killed, underscoring the regime’s willingness to project power beyond its borders.

Despite the setback with the destroyer, Kim remains focused on his long-term goal of expanding North Korea’s military arsenal. The regime frequently cites external threats as justification for its relentless military buildup, and Kim has made clear he expects complete loyalty and competence from those involved in these efforts.

Repairs, investigations, and global scrutiny

Kim Jong Un’s demand for immediate repairs highlights both the urgency and the stakes for those responsible for the failed launch. The dictator has ordered that the warship be restored before the June party meeting, and he has signaled that a thorough investigation will follow, with consequences likely for those found at fault.

Kim’s statement directly targeted his own leadership team, as reported by North Korean state media:

Kim reportedly blamed military officials, scientists and shipyard operators for a "serious accident and criminal act caused by absolute carelessness, irresponsibility and unscientific empiricism."

Observers say this response fits a pattern of authoritarian regimes seeking to shift blame downward in moments of crisis. Critics of the North Korean government argue the episode exposes vulnerabilities in the country’s tightly controlled military-industrial complex, while supporters insist the nation will rebound stronger.