North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has formally deployed a new warship called the Kang Kon, saying it is capable of delivering devastating retaliatory strikes against an enemy. 

The destroyer was commissioned at the eastern port of Wonsan as North Korea continues efforts to strengthen and modernize its navy.

North Korea said the Kang Kon carries the same weapons systems as the 5,000-ton Choe Hyon, which analysts say can potentially carry missiles capable of delivering nuclear payloads.

The deployment comes just before the United States, South Korea and Japan are scheduled to begin a five-day military exercise near South Korea, which Pyongyang has condemned as a provocation, Al-Jazeera has reported.

Kim also announced plans for additional naval bases, new naval units and more warships as North Korea expands its nuclear-capable military forces and seeks to strengthen its ability to retaliate against perceived threats.