North Korean leader Kim Jong-il has visited a field artillery unit and observed a live fire exercise.

The North’s official Korean Central News Agency said Sunday that Kim, who heads the National Defense Commission, toured Unit 1811 but did not name the location or date.

North Korea watchers say Kim frequently visits military bases, but the review of the artillery unit is significant because it marks his third this year.

His frequent visits to military units are seen as a move to encourage the North Korean military, which has announced an all-out confrontation against South Korea, and put pressure on the South.