Pyongyang: North Korea has recently deployed 250 nuclear-capable missile launchers to its frontline military units, as reported by state media on Monday. The deployment was marked by a ceremony where leader Kim Jong Un emphasized the need for continuous expansion of the military’s nuclear capabilities to counter perceived threats from the U.S.
Kim’s focus on nuclear weapons is intended to enhance his military’s capabilities along the South Korean border, including authorizing preemptive nuclear strikes if the leadership feels threatened. The launchers, produced by North Korea’s munitions factories, are designed for “tactical” ballistic missiles that are suited for lower-yield nuclear weapons, as confirmed by the Korean Central News Agency.
During the Pyongyang ceremony, Kim highlighted that the new launchers would offer “overwhelming” firepower over South Korea, improving the effectiveness and practicality of North Korea’s tactical nuclear arsenal. Images from the event showcased army-green launcher trucks, a large crowd, and fireworks.
North Korea’s expansion of short-range mobile weapons is aimed at challenging South Korea’s missile defenses and advancing its development of intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of reaching the U.S. mainland. Kim’s recent weapons tests and aggressive rhetoric are viewed as attempts to pressure the U.S. into recognizing North Korea as a nuclear power and easing sanctions.
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Kim has accelerated weapons development, using Russia’s war in Ukraine as a pretext. In response, the U.S., South Korea, and Japan have intensified joint military exercises and refined their nuclear deterrence strategies involving U.S. military assets.
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff spokesperson, Lee Sung Joon, stated that the South Korean and U.S. militaries are closely monitoring North Korea’s weapons development and assessing the missile systems’ readiness. Lee noted that further evaluation is needed to confirm their operational status, and the missiles might have shorter ranges compared to some of North Korea’s potent short-range ballistic missiles, which can exceed 600 kilometers.
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Kim also highlighted the newly revealed Hwasong-11 missile, which has a range of up to 100 kilometers, covering significant areas of South Korea’s capital region. Kim called for preparedness for a prolonged confrontation with the U.S. and advocated for relentless military expansion, citing increased military cooperation between the U.S. and its regional allies.
Russia’s offer of flood aid to North Korea indicates deepening ties between the two nations. Kim is prioritizing relationships with countries opposed to Washington, embracing a “new Cold War” stance and aligning with Putin against the West.
