Tokyo — North Korea test launched two missiles in the 24 hours leading up to Monday morning, U.S. time, the second one an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) theoretically capable of reaching anywhere in the U.S. mainland, according to officials in South Korea and Japan.
North Korea didn't immediately confirm any details of its latest launches, but defense officials in South Korea and Japan — both close U.S. allies — said the long-range rocket travelled just over 600 miles before splashing down in the sea northwest of Tokyo and west of Japan's northern island of Hokkaido.
The North's leader Kim Jong Un watched with a smile as his military showed off its new long-range missiles during recent parades in the capital city of Pyongyang — some of them likely similar to the one launched Monday morning.
This has been a record year for North Korea's weapons testing program. The nation has launched at least 36 missiles, including a rocket that carried a spy satellite into space in November.
South Korea Tests New Long-Range Missile
South Korean officials have confirmed the successful test of a new long-range missile on Monday. The missile, believed to be the Hwasong-18 ICBM developed by the Kim regime, is powered by solid fuel, making it more mobile and faster to deploy compared to older liquid-fueled missiles.
This new technology poses a challenge for adversaries as it is more difficult to detect and prepare for prior to a launch. The missile can be launched from anywhere its launch vehicle can be driven, giving North Korea greater flexibility and strategic advantage.
Concerns Raised by U.S. Indo-Pacific Command
Adm. John Aquilino, head of the U.S. military's Indo-Pacific Command, expressed concern over North Korea's increased missile capabilities. He mentioned that North Korea's recent missile tests, ranging from ICBMs to space launch vehicles, are alarming.
Aquilino acknowledged the difficulties in locating launchers and positioning forces to respond in advance of a launch. However, he assured that the allies will continue to work proactively to get ahead of any potential launches.
Hwasong-18: North Korea's Most Powerful Weapon
The Hwasong-18, which is designed to be equipped with a nuclear warhead, has been tested by North Korea before. Kim Jong Un, the leader of North Korea, has described it as the most powerful weapon in the country's nuclear arsenal.
North Korea Continues to Launch Missiles in Violation of UN Resolutions
Despite ongoing United Nations Security Council resolutions that prohibit missile development by the Kim regime, North Korea has continued to launch missiles. The country's leader, Kim Jong Un, argues that his nation needs to develop its weapons, including nuclear missiles, to defend against the perceived threat of an attack by the United States and its allies.
However, the United States, South Korea, and Japan maintain that the real threat to regional peace comes from Kim and his military. They emphasize that there are no intentions to attack or invade North Korea.
