North Korea Tests 600mm Super-Large Rocket Launcher, Capable of Tactical Nuclear Strikes

North Korea likely conducted a test launch of its 600mm super-large multiple rocket launcher (KN-25) on Tuesday, a weapon system the regime claims is capable of carrying tactical nuclear warheads.

During a press briefing, an official from South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) confirmed that North Korea fired several short-range ballistic missiles around 7:30 a.m. Based on the launch characteristics, the missiles are believed to be 600mm large-caliber rockets.

The official noted, “Previously, they launched from north of Pyongyang. Today, they fired from Sariwon, bringing nearly the entire southern coast of the Korean Peninsula within range.”

The missiles, launched from North Hwanghae Province toward an uninhabited island off North Hamgyong Province’s coast, traveled approximately 400 kilometers (249 miles). The JCS official suggested that North Korea’s use of a mobile Transporter Erector Launcher (TEL) from an unexpected location may be intended to demonstrate its capacity for surprise tactical nuclear strikes against the South.

Earlier, North Korea claimed its Hwasan-31 tactical nuclear warhead, unveiled last March, can be mounted on the 600mm large-caliber rocket launcher.

U.S. and South Korean military authorities anticipate further provocations from North Korea, potentially including hypersonic missiles, submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) tests, a seventh nuclear test, space launch vehicle launches, artillery strikes on northwestern islands and border areas, drone incursions, and GPS signal jamming.

The JCS official reported that preparations for hypersonic missile and SLBM launches are advancing, with SLBM launch readiness continuing near Sinpo. “They’re always ready for nuclear tests, and we believe their nuclear material production has exceeded early-year estimates,” the official added.

He also emphasized that Tunnel 3 at the Punggye-ri nuclear test site remains on standby, allowing for a test within days if ordered.

Military analysts believe a seventh North Korean nuclear test would likely focus on a tactical nuclear warhead designed for the 600mm super-large rocket launcher. “Miniaturizing nuclear weapons is an advanced technology for any nation,” the official stated. “True capabilities can only be verified through testing. If North Korea conducts another nuclear test, miniaturization will be the primary objective.”