North Korea has reported a successful test of a solid-fuel engine for its new intermediate-range hypersonic missile, marking progress in its efforts to develop a more powerful and agile missile capable of striking distant U.S. targets in the region. The hypersonic missile is part of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's plan to introduce high-tech weapons systems in 2021 to counter perceived U.S. hostility and potentially gain concessions through diplomacy.
Kim oversaw the ground test of the multi-stage solid-fuel engine at a rocket launch facility, emphasizing the strategic importance of the new missile with an intermediate range. This missile system is seen as crucial for targeting U.S. Pacific territories like Guam and military installations in Japan's Okinawa island.
North Korea's focus on solid propellant-based weapons aims to enhance launch stealthiness compared to liquid-propellant missiles. The pursuit of hypersonic weapons is also intended to overcome U.S. and South Korean missile defense systems, although the actual speed and maneuverability of North Korea's hypersonic vehicles during tests remain uncertain.
Recent tests by North Korea have included a solid-fuel intermediate-range ballistic missile with a hypersonic warhead, indicating advancements in missile technology. The latest engine test suggests that North Korea may soon conduct a test launch of the new hypersonic missile.
South Korea, the U.S., and Japan recently detected multiple ballistic missile test-launches by North Korea, prompting concerns about regional security. North Korea's missile activities have escalated in 2022, leading to increased military exercises by the U.S. and its allies in the region.
As North Korea continues its missile testing, experts anticipate further provocations ahead of the U.S. presidential election in November. The international community closely monitors North Korea's missile developments and their implications for regional stability.
