Quick Take: Damaged North Korean Destroyer Could Be Ready for Ceremonial Relaunch

North Korea appears to be preparing to relaunch the Choe Hyun-class naval destroyer that failed to launch at Chongjin Port on May 21 and has since been moved to the Rajin Shipyard for repairs. Commercial satellite imagery from June 12 shows that while the ship remains in Rajin’s drydock, the caisson gates have been opened and a number of structures consistent with previous launch ceremonies have appeared nearby. 

The pace of work to repair the ship has been surprisingly fast. The vessel only entered Rajin Shipyard for repairs on June 7, after being turned upright by June 2. North Korean state media said on June 6 that the destroyer would remain in the dry dock for 7 to 10 days. However, the first temporary structure appeared on the dock on imagery from June 9, with  additional structures or awnings added over the following days. Three cranes are positioned at corners of the drydock, presumably moved out of the way following repair work. 

Imagery from June 12 shows a probable red carpet leading to the central structure on the drydock’s surround. A vehicle is parked near the end of the red carpet, although the exact  type of vehicle is unclear. A similar carpet appears to extend from the dock to the ship. 

Camouflage netting that previously covered the ship has been removed, and water returned to the drydock by June 7. Many coaches are visible around the dockside and in the neighboring area. While preparations for a ceremony appear to be underway, the exact date of the launch is unknown.

The ship was damaged when it fell sideways during its first launching ceremony on May 21. The accident happened in view of Kim Jong Un, who issued instructions to have the ship “unconditionally” repaired by the late June plenary meeting of the Worker’s Party of Korea Central Committee. The exact dates for the meeting have not been announced.