North Korea’s self-proclaimed nuclear power has fired a medium-range ballistic missile, according to the South Korean military. South Korea’s top command accused the largely isolated neighbor of renewed provocation.
The missile was fired on Tuesday morning (local time) in the region around the capital Pyongyang and then flew about 600 kilometers east towards the open sea, the General Staff in Seoul said. According to information, the missile fell into the sea between the Korean Peninsula and Japan. Further data on the missile test would be evaluated in cooperation with the US and Japan, the report said. However, the South Korean military assumed it would test a medium-range missile. Their range is lower than that of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) of at least 5,500 kilometers.
Hypersonic missile tested?
Military officials in South Korea did not rule out that North Korea may have tested a medium-range missile with a hypersonic warhead. According to its own statements, North Korea last successfully tested a solid-fuel jet engine for a “new type” hypersonic medium-range missile in March.
The country spoke of a weapon system with strategic value. This indicated that the missile would also be equipped with a nuclear warhead. Hypersonic missiles are extremely difficult to intercept because they travel more than five times the speed of sound and are maneuverable.
The Japanese government has condemned Pyongyang’s latest missile test. “This is a matter that concerns not only the security of our country, but also the security of the region and the international community,” Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said.
UN resolutions ban North Korea from launching or even testing ballistic missiles, which, depending on their design, could be equipped with a nuclear warhead. The country is subject to international sanctions over its nuclear weapons and missile programs.
Conflicts have become hotter again
The conflict over North Korea’s weapons programs has become considerably more explosive again. The country has tested nuclear-capable missiles and cruise missiles several times since early 2022. It also had nuclear armament enshrined in its constitution. The United States and South Korea, which Pyongyang considers their biggest enemies, have expanded military cooperation, including joint exercises.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
