North Korean leader Kim Jong-un oversees air combat training

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un oversaw air combat training on March 15 and called for “realistic” preparations for combat, Reuters reported.

The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) announced this information on March 16 after the annual joint military exercise between South Korea and the US ended earlier.

KCNA quoted Mr. Kim Jong-un: “Only practical training directly related to combat can prepare soldiers to become real warriors.”

The leader said he was satisfied with the North Korean military's readiness and ordered training to cope with all types of terrain, weather, time and the harshest conditions.

Since early March, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has continuously inspected military units.

Most recently, on March 13, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un directed a drill involving tank units.

KCNA said the event was held to test the tank crews' actual combat capabilities and familiarize them with various forms of combat and tactics.

According to KCNA, Mr. Kim expressed satisfaction when a new type of main battle tank demonstrated its offensive power during the drill.

At the event, the North Korean leader also emphasized the need to organize intensive drills simulating real-life battles, as well as strengthen training to improve combat capabilities.

On March 8, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that leader Kim Jong-un directed artillery firing drills by frontline units.

KCNA said the drill was conducted on March 7, aiming to improve the combat readiness posture and actual combat capability of the artillery force of the Korean People's Army (KPA).

KCNA quoted Mr. Kim Jong-un as instructing artillery units to “increase their ability to launch quick and powerful attacks.”

On March 6, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un inspected a large combat training facility in the western region of the country and directed the actual operations of the units.

During the visit, Leader Kim Jong-un inspected the infrastructure and training grounds there and guided the drill. Selected combat units participated in the combat readiness drill as planned.

In his speech, Leader Kim Jong-un highly appreciated and encouraged the soldiers' spirit.

He pointed out that the Korean People's Army (KPA) needs to further strengthen training at present, and set important tasks to increase practical exercises and improve combat readiness.

The inspection tour took place two days after South Korea and the United States began their annual Freedom Shield exercise aimed at enhancing deterrence.

Pyongyang has long criticized such joint exercises as a rehearsal for invasion and warned of a strong response.