North Korea claims it has made further progress in developing long-range hypersonic missiles to strengthen its nuclear deterrent. On Tuesday, on instructions from ruler Kim Jong Un, the country tested a “new type” Hwasongpho-16B medium-range ballistic missile for the first time, state media of the Stalinist dictatorship reported on Wednesday. However, the question is whether you should believe the Kim regime’s propaganda.
The solid-propellant missile was equipped with a newly developed hyper-fast glider warhead, which could also serve as a nuclear warhead, the report said. The largely isolated country is subject to international sanctions over its nuclear weapons and missile programs.
North Korea wants to ‘strike enemies worldwide’
Kim described the missile as “another powerful strategic offensive weapon.” With the successful test, North Korea also demonstrated that it can in principle equip all “tactical, operational and strategic missiles of different ranges” with solid fuel and nuclear warheads. The country’s stated goal is to be able to hit the enemy worldwide. North Korea considers the United States and South Korea its main enemies.
The self-proclaimed nuclear power’s latest missile test was captured by South Korea and Japan. The South Korean military spoke of a suspected medium-range missile. It flew about 600 kilometers before falling into the water between the Korean Peninsula and Japan. Both countries condemned the test as a clear violation of UN resolutions banning North Korea from testing ballistic missiles from any range.
Tensions rose considerably
North Korea has been developing nuclear missiles for years. The country also said it had already tested hypersonic missiles several times. Such weapons are extremely difficult to intercept because they travel more than five times the speed of sound and are maneuverable. When solid-fuel rockets are launched, the warning time is also reduced.
Tensions on the Korean Peninsula have again increased significantly. North Korea has tested missiles several times since early 2022. The US and South Korea have expanded their military cooperation.
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.
