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North Korea tested new tactical ballistic missiles with super-large warheads and modified cruise missiles on Wednesday, state news agency KCNA said, under the leadership of leader Kim Jong Un, who called for stronger conventional weapons and nuclear capabilities.
The agency quoted Kim as saying that the tests aimed at improving weapons capabilities were necessary due to the serious threat posed by external forces to the country’s security.
The KCNA report likely refers to the launch of multiple short-range ballistic missiles yesterday, which the South Korean military said was North Korea’s second missile test in a week.
Pyongyang also revealed a uranium enrichment facility last week, in the first public report of its kind ever.
The agency said that Kim stressed “the necessity of continuing to strengthen the nuclear force and possessing the strongest military-technical capabilities and overwhelming offensive power in the field of conventional weapons as well.”
The North’s official Korean Central News Agency said yesterday’s tests involved a new Hwasongbo-11-DA-4.5 tactical ballistic missile, suggesting it is part of a series of short-range ballistic missiles being developed by Pyongyang, some of which are believed to have been exported to Russia.
Kyiv officials and independent experts say there is evidence that some of the missiles Russia used in the war against Ukraine were made in North Korea.
The Korean Central News Agency reported that the missile was equipped with a very large conventional warhead weighing 4.5 tons.
She added that the tests also included a strategic cruise missile developed for combat use.
Pyongyang criticizes military exercises conducted by the South Korean and US armies, describing them as preparations for war on the Korean peninsula.
The two allies say the drills are defensive in nature and aim to maintain readiness against any aggression from North Korea.
