Pyongyang: North Korea has conducted a test-firing of two types of newly improved air defense missiles to evaluate their combat capabilities, with leader Kim Jong-un personally overseeing the operation. This development was reported by state media on Sunday.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the Missile Administration carried out the test on Saturday, launching two varieties of the new air defense missiles at different targets. Kim Jong-un supervised the test-firing, demonstrating North Korea's ongoing focus on advancing its military technology.

The test-firing coincided with the ongoing large-scale joint military exercise, Ulchi Freedom Shield, conducted by South Korea and the United States. This exercise commenced on August 18 and is set to continue for 11 days, highlighting the heightened military activities in the region.