Pyongyang: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw a successful test of a new intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missile (IRBM) on Monday, according to state media outlet KCNA. The test marked a significant development in North Korea’s missile capabilities, with Kim pledging to further accelerate the country’s nuclear and missile advancements.
The test, which was North Korea’s first missile launch since November 5, coincided with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit to South Korea. During the visit, Blinken emphasized the importance of bilateral and trilateral cooperation, particularly with Japan, to address the escalating military threats from Pyongyang.
The missile was launched from the outskirts of Pyongyang and flew approximately 1,500 km (932 miles) at speeds 12 times that of sound. It reached an altitude of nearly 100 km before descending to a “second peak” of 42.5 km, where it maneuvered toward an accurate target off the east coast of North Korea. However, South Korea’s military expressed skepticism about the KCNA’s report, suggesting the missile’s range was likely closer to 1,100 km and that there was no second peak detected. Detailed analysis is expected to be conducted with U.S. authorities.
The missile featured new carbon fiber composite materials in its engine section, which are stronger and lighter than traditional materials such as aluminum. Despite being difficult to manufacture, carbon fiber offers advantages in missile design. KCNA claimed the missile could “effectively penetrate any dense defense barrier and inflict a serious military blow on the opponent.”
Kim Jong Un praised the missile as a potent weapon against what he described as security threats posed by hostile forces and an evolving regional environment. KCNA also released photographs of Kim overseeing the launch remotely, accompanied by his young daughter, and a missile lifting off from the field.
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“The development of this new-type hypersonic missile is primarily aimed at advancing the country’s nuclear war deterrent,” Kim stated, according to KCNA.
In response to the launch, both Blinken and South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul condemned the missile test, further warning of North Korea’s growing ties with Russia, particularly regarding illicit cooperation in space and satellite technology.
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North Korea has been developing a new solid-fuel IRBM as part of its ongoing efforts to stay ahead in the arms race for next-generation long-range missiles that are harder to track and intercept. Last year’s tests involved a new solid-fuel design and what Pyongyang claimed was a hypersonic glide vehicle — a maneuverable warhead capable of evading missile defenses.
Lee Sung-jun, a spokesperson for South Korea’s military, suggested that the latest launch may be an extension of last year’s tests.
