North Korea Demonstrates Hypersonic Missile Capability with Mach 12 Speeds and 1,500 km Range

North Korea successfully conducted a test launch of a new hypersonic medium-range ballistic missile on Monday, according to the state-run newspaper Rodong Sinmun. The missile was launched from a site near Pyongyang towards the northeast, with the hypersonic glide vehicle reportedly reaching speeds of Mach 12, achieving peak altitudes of 99.8 km (62 miles) and 42.5 km (26.4 miles) during its two-stage flight. It allegedly followed a predetermined trajectory, striking a target area in international waters approximately 1,500 km (932 miles) away.

Jang Chang Ha, head of North Korea’s missile authority, and other top officials from the Defense Science Research Institute supervised the test launch on-site, while leader Kim Jong Un observed it via a video monitoring system.

Kim stated that this test demonstrates North Korea’s ongoing efforts to upgrade powerful new weapon systems, such as the hypersonic medium-range ballistic missile, to counter various security threats posed by hostile forces.

Kim emphasized that only a few countries possess such advanced weapon systems. The primary goal of developing the new hypersonic missile is to alter battlefield dynamics by creating a weapon system that no adversary can counter. He stated that the test underscored North Korea’s commitment to strengthening strategic deterrence and enhancing its nuclear war deterrence capabilities.

He also asserted that the latest hypersonic medium-range missile system’s performance is globally significant, claiming it can effectively penetrate dense defense barriers to deliver substantial military strikes against adversaries.

Kim further stated that this strategic weapons test showcased the country’s self-reliance in defense technologies and emphasized its readiness to employ any means necessary to counter potential threats.

He stressed that the hypersonic missile system would be a reliable deterrent against adversaries in the Pacific region that could threaten national security.

North Korean media reported that the new hypersonic missile’s propulsion system incorporates a novel carbon fiber composite material. Additionally, it claimed that comprehensive and practical approaches based on accumulated technologies have been integrated into the missile’s flight and guidance control systems.