North Korea Test Launches Long-Range Missile Capable of Reaching U.S. Mainland
Missile Test Launches
North Korea made headlines as it test-launched two missiles within a 24-hour span, with the latest being an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) potentially capable of reaching any part of the U.S. mainland. Officials from South Korea and Japan confirmed the developments.
Missile Trajectory and Impact
Although North Korea hasn't provided immediate details about the launches, defense authorities from South Korea and Japan, both close allies of the United States, reported that the long-range rocket traveled approximately 600 miles before descending into the sea northwest of Tokyo and west of Japan's northern island of Hokkaido.
Display of Military Power
During recent parades in Pyongyang, North Korea's leader, Kim Jong Un, showcased the country's new long-range missiles, underscoring the significance of these advancements in the nation's military arsenal.
Record Year for Testing
This year has been marked by an intensified weapons testing program by North Korea, encompassing at least 36 missile launches, including the launch of a spy satellite into space in November.
Nature of the Weapon Tested
South Korean officials indicated that the long-range missile tested on Monday likely represents the Kim regime's Hwasong-18 ICBM. Being solid fuel-powered, this missile system offers heightened mobility and rapid deployment compared to older liquid-fueled models. Such advancements in technology make it more challenging for adversaries to detect and preempt a launch.
Global Concerns and Response
Admiral John Aquilino, chief of the U.S. military's Indo-Pacific Command, expressed concern over North Korea's increasing missile capabilities, highlighting the challenges in anticipating and responding to their launches. While acknowledging the difficulty in locating launchers and positioning forces ahead of launches, he affirmed the commitment of the U.S., Japan, and South Korea to proactively address these threats.
Violations and Defensive Measures
North Korea's missile launches, including the Hwasong-18 tests, violate United Nations Security Council resolutions. Despite this, Kim asserts the necessity of these weapons for defense against perceived threats from the U.S. and its allies. On the other side, Washington, Seoul, and Tokyo emphasize that the threat to regional peace emanates from North Korea and reiterate their lack of intentions to initiate aggression against the country.
Response to Talks and Military Movements
The timing of these missile launches seems linked to nuclear deterrence discussions between the U.S. and South Korea, along with the reported arrival of a U.S. nuclear-powered submarine in South Korea's Busan port over the weekend. These actions by North Korea appear to be a reaction to ongoing discussions and military movements in the region.
This latest test further underscores the need for ongoing diplomacy and vigilant monitoring of North Korea's military activities to maintain regional stability.