North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has asserted that the navy must be integrated into the country's nuclear deterrent strategy. His comments came during an inspection of the destroyer Kang Kon on June 4, where he emphasized that peace can only be maintained through robust military capabilities across all domains: land, sea, and air. Kim outlined a five-year naval modernization plan, which includes developing underwater weapon systems and constructing 10,000-ton destroyers. These statements reflect ongoing military tensions in the Korean Peninsula, as Kim has been showcasing advancements in North Korea's nuclear and conventional weaponry. The timing of his remarks coincides with the upcoming visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping to Pyongyang on June 8-9, his first since 2019. This visit is significant as it comes amidst a shift in China's approach to North Korea, focusing on managing its nuclear ambitions rather than pursuing denuclearization. Additionally, the U.S. has approved a $106 million military equipment sale to South Korea to improve collaboration with American forces, further intensifying regional military dynamics.