North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the salvo launches of the country's 'super-large' multiple rocket launchers, as reported by the official Korean Central News Agency. The drills simulated a nuclear counterattack against perceived enemy targets, escalating tensions in the region.
The launches, which took place near Pyongyang, involved large-sized artillery rockets that possess characteristics of both artillery systems and ballistic missiles. These rockets, including the 600mm multiple rocket launchers tested, are said to be capable of delivering tactical nuclear warheads.
The report highlighted that the drills showcased North Korea's nuclear-weapons management and control system known as 'Haekbangashoe' or 'nuclear trigger.' The country's leader expressed satisfaction with the accuracy of the multiple rocket launchers, likening them to a 'sniper's rifle.'
The South Korean and Japanese militaries detected the firing of suspected short-range ballistic missiles, with the weapons flying approximately 300 kilometers before crashing between the Korean Peninsula and Japan. The launches coincided with joint military exercises between South Korea and the United States aimed at enhancing response capabilities against North Korean threats.
Amid stalled diplomacy with the U.S. and South Korea, North Korea has intensified its weapons testing in recent months. The country's goal, according to analysts, is to pressure the U.S. into recognizing it as a nuclear power and securing economic and security concessions.
In response to North Korea's evolving nuclear threats, the U.S., South Korea, and Japan have bolstered their military drills and nuclear deterrence strategies. While North Korea has demonstrated the capability to strike South Korea and Japan with nuclear missiles, it has yet to develop intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of reaching the continental U.S.
These latest launches follow North Korea's recent tests of a 'super-large' cruise missile warhead, an anti-aircraft missile, and a solid-fuel intermediate-range missile with hypersonic warhead capabilities. The country's continued weapons testing underscores its efforts to enhance military capabilities amidst regional tensions.
