According to the DPRK's Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), two "strategic" or nuclear-capable cruise missiles from a submarine were launched in tests by North Korea to counter the joint military exercises by the US and South Korea. 

The report by the KCNA claims that the missiles. launched from the only experimental ballistic missile submarine, the "8.24 Yongung", reached approximately 1,500 kilometers (932 miles) before plunging into the sea. 

The aim of the tests, per KCNA, was to show the nation's ability and determination to manage a case in which "the US imperialists and the South Korean puppet forces are getting evermore undisguised in their anti-DPRK military maneuvers." 

The tests come a mere 11 days before South Korea and the US are due to begin the 11-day course of drills nicknamed the "Freedom Shield 23," which Pyongyang considers potential rehearsals for the invasion of its soil.

Read more: DPRK urges UN to halt 'provocative' US-S. Korea drills

Preparing for a "real war"

Earlier this month, the South Korean military announced the beginning of "Teak Knife" military exercises staged by the special forces of Seoul and Washington, which entail a simulation of precision strikes on key facilities in the DPRK. 

Last Thursday, DPRK leader Kim Jong Un, who ordered the launch of a short-range ballistic missile (SRBM), also ordered his military to amp up drills in preparation for a "real war."

On Sunday, a meeting was held by Kim Jong-Un to decide on "important, practical measures" to intensify the nation's strength to fend off war.

In response, the US declared it was adamant on its "ironclad" commitment to "defend" South Korea through the "full range of its military capabilities, including nuclear."