Kim Jong Un Claims New Missile Success: North Korea’s Military Might on the Rise

North Korea has announced a successful launch of a short-range ballistic missile (SRBM), with Kim Jong Un asserting that “strengthening military power is the most critical task,” thereby escalating the level of threats from the regime.

On Thursday, the North Korean state news agency, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), reported that the Missile General Bureau successfully tested the new tactical ballistic missile Hwasong-11Da-4.5 and an upgraded strategic cruise missile.

According to the KCNA, the test launch of the new short-range ballistic missile (SRBM), equipped with a 4.5-ton ultra-large conventional warhead, aimed to confirm the missile’s accuracy in hitting a target at a medium range of approximately 320 kilometers (199 miles) and its explosive power. This test marked the second launch since July 1st. At that time, the missile bureau indicated plans for additional test launches in July to verify the missile’s medium-range flight characteristics, which is presumed to be conducted this time.

North Korea conducted a test launch of a strategic cruise missile the previous day, which enhanced its combat capabilities. The South Korean military detected several SRBMs launched from the Kaechon area in South Pyongan Province but did not separately address the strategic cruise missile launch.

During the test, Kim expressed satisfaction, stating that “these tests and the continuous improvement of weapon performance are directly related to the severe threats posed by external forces to the national security environment of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.” He underscored that strengthening self-defense military power is a paramount national issue.

Kim also highlighted the necessity of possessing world-class military technology and overwhelming offensive capabilities in nuclear and conventional weapons. Furthermore, he reviewed sniper weapons developed by the Academy of National Defense Science, including a 7.62 mm sniper rifle and a 5.56 mm automatic rifle, while outlining key tasks for their production.

Several high-ranking officials accompanied Kim during the test launch observation, including Park Jong Chon, vice chairman of the Central Military Commission; Jo Chun Ryong, secretary of the Central Committee; Kim Jong Sik, first deputy director of the Central Committee; and Jang Chang Ha, director of the Missile General Bureau.