North Korea has announced the successful test launch of advanced hypersonic missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads, enhancing its military capabilities amidst escalating tensions. The country’s leader, Kim Jong-un, stated that the weapons development aims to establish a nuclear deterrent against potential threats, particularly targeting South Korea. This announcement follows reports from South Korea’s military regarding the detection of multiple missiles launched from a southern area near Pyongyang, traveling approximately 217 miles northeast before landing on the ground.
The testing of these new hypersonic missiles coincides with the gathering of world leaders, including US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, for the annual Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meetings in South Korea. The US Forces Korea acknowledged North Korea’s ballistic launches and emphasized its commitment to counter the North’s pursuit of long-range missile capabilities, urging compliance with UN Security Council sanctions to maintain regional stability.
According to the Korean Central News Agency, the recent launches involved two hypersonic projectiles hitting a designated target in the northern region, with implications that these missiles are strategic in nature and intended for potential nuclear warhead deployment. The specific name of the tested missile system was not disclosed, but recent military parades showcased North Korea’s advancements in weaponry, including a short-range ballistic system featuring hypersonic glide vehicles.
North Korea has been actively testing various missile systems equipped with hypersonic technology, which enables speeds surpassing five times the speed of sound. While these weapons are designed for enhanced speed and maneuverability to evade defense systems, experts have questioned the accuracy of North Korea’s speed claims during testing scenarios.
Pak Jong Chon, a senior military official under Kim’s command present during the recent tests, praised the performance of the new weapon system and emphasized ongoing efforts to fortify the country’s defense capabilities. Additionally, during a recent parade, Kim unveiled a new intercontinental ballistic missile labeled as a potent nuclear asset, expanding North Korea’s arsenal with potential reach toward the US mainland.
Analysts suggest that North Korea might be preparing for the upcoming test of the intercontinental ballistic missile ahead of a major ruling party conference in early 2026. This strategic move aligns with Kim’s agenda to announce crucial policy directions, potentially involving relations with the United States. Following the breakdown of nuclear diplomacy with the US in 2019, Kim has accelerated weapons testing activities to showcase military capabilities and assert dominance.
These missile launches mark the first ballistic tests conducted by North Korea since South Korean President Lee Jae Myung assumed office in June, with a focus on restoring peace in the Korean Peninsula. Despite offers for dialogue from the South, Kim remains firm on his stance, rejecting talks with the US until Washington abandons its denuclearization demands on North Korea.