North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has inspected key munitions factories, including a tactical missile production plant, and ordered a drastic boost in the manufacturing of missiles, rocket-launcher shells and other weapons, according to state media.
The inspections are the latest in a string of visits by Kim to defence facilities, where he has emphasized the mass production of weapons.
It comes as South Korea and the United States prepare for annual military drills that North Korea views as an invasion rehearsal. It also comes as officials in the US said they believe Russia is seeking North Korean weapons for its war with Ukraine.
The official Korean Central News Agency says Kim visited factories producing tactical missiles, mobile launch platforms, armoured vehicles and artillery shells.