Kim Jong Un's Directive: Ramp Up Missile Production Amidst US-South Korea Drills

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has ordered an increase in missile production to secure "overwhelming military power" and be prepared for war, according to state media KCNA. Kim's directive came during his visit to munitions factories that produce tactical missiles, missile launch platforms, armored vehicles, and artillery shells. This move comes ahead of annual military drills between South Korea and the United States, which Pyongyang sees as a rehearsal for war. Kim emphasized the need to dramatically increase missile production capacity to meet the demands of frontline military units. South Korea and the US have announced plans to hold the Ulchi Freedom Guardian summer exercises from August 21-31 to enhance their response capabilities to North Korea's nuclear and missile threats.