North Korea recently conducted a test of a new hypersonic intermediate-range missile, as reported by state media. The missile, designed to target remote locations in the Pacific, was launched and flew 1,100 kilometers before landing in waters between the Korean Peninsula and Japan.
This test comes amidst North Korea's ongoing efforts to expand its collection of nuclear-capable weapons. The country has been actively testing various weapons systems, including solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missiles, raising concerns among neighboring nations and the United States.
North Korea's military capabilities could potentially advance further through technology transfers from Russia, particularly in light of the two countries aligning over the conflict in Ukraine.
The recent test involved a hypersonic missile that reportedly flew at speeds 12 times the speed of sound, covering a distance of 1,500 kilometers before accurately striking a sea target. However, South Korea's military has expressed skepticism about the North's claims, stating that the missile may not have achieved the speeds and distances as reported.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervised the launch and described the missile as a crucial achievement in bolstering the country's nuclear deterrence. Kim emphasized the importance of building an arsenal that can effectively counter any threats in the Pacific region.
The launch coincided with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to Seoul, where he condemned North Korea's actions and reiterated concerns about the country's alignment with Russia in the conflict in Ukraine.
Experts suggest that Kim's strengthened position, supported by an expanded nuclear arsenal and closer ties with Russia, presents new challenges to resolving the nuclear standoff. Despite potential changes in U.S. leadership, a quick resumption of diplomacy with North Korea may prove difficult given the current geopolitical landscape.
