North Korea recently announced that leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the successful tests of two different types of missiles. One of the missiles was designed for a “super-large conventional warhead,” while the other is believed to be intended for a nuclear warhead. Kim instructed officials to enhance the country’s military capabilities to defend against threats from the U.S.
The tests are presumed to be referring to the multiple missile launches conducted by North Korea off its east coast. The Korean Central News Agency reported that Kim supervised the launch of the Hwasongpho-11-Da-4.5 ballistic missile equipped with a dummy “4.5-ton super-large conventional warhead.” This test aimed to demonstrate the missile’s ability to accurately hit a target 320 kilometers (200 miles) away, indicating it is primarily designed to target locations in South Korea.
Additionally, Kim oversaw the launch of an improved “strategic” cruise missile, suggesting they could potentially be used to carry nuclear warheads. Kim emphasized the importance of strengthening the country’s nuclear force and acquiring significant offensive capabilities in conventional weapons.
North Korea has been focusing on developing advanced weapons systems to counter perceived security threats from South Korea and the U.S. Experts believe that North Korea aims to use its growing arsenal as leverage in future negotiations with the U.S.
Recently, concerns about North Korea have increased following the disclosure of images of a secretive facility used to enrich uranium for nuclear weapons. Moreover, North Korea has been sending thousands of balloons filled with trash towards South Korea since May, leading South Korea to resume anti-North loudspeaker broadcasts at border regions.