North Korea Tests New Hypersonic Missile, Defying International Pressure
Regional Security Concerns
North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un has announced the successful test of a new hypersonic missile, aimed at deterring the country’s Pacific rivals, according to state media reports. The test comes just two weeks before the inauguration of US president-elect Donald Trump, who previously tried to woo North Korea, and coincides with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit to the region.
Missile Technology
The hypersonic missile system, which Kim oversaw the launch of, uses a "new compound of carbon fibre" in its engine, which experts warn could allow Pyongyang to hit further targets with technology to which only the United States, Russia, and China currently have access. The launch also employed a "new comprehensive and effective method" for its flight and guidance control system.
Regional Reactions
Blinken condemned the launch, stating that Pyongyang was "already receiving Russian military equipment and training." Acting South Korean President Choi Sang-mok criticized the launch, calling it a "grave threat" to regional security. Lee Sung-joon, spokesperson of South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff, disputed some of North Korea’s launch details, saying that the country "has frequently made exaggerated claims."
North Korea’s Strategic Position
Analysts believe that the launch was a message to the United States to engage in dialogue based on Pyongyang’s new game-changing technology as Trump prepares to enter the White House. "It sends a clear message to the Trump administration, suggesting that in order to engage in dialogue, North Korea’s strategic position must be acknowledged," said Hong Min, a senior analyst at the Korea Institute for National Unification.
Kim’s Daughter Watches
Images released by KCNA showed Kim observing the launch with his teenage daughter Ju Ae at an undisclosed location. The location of the test site was also undisclosed, but images showed the missile launching from a remote piece of land surrounded by water on either side and trees stripped because of the winter cold.
Conclusion
The test of the new hypersonic missile has raised concerns about North Korea’s military capabilities and its intentions in the region. The launch is seen as a message to the United States and other countries to acknowledge Pyongyang’s strategic position and engage in dialogue. However, the international community remains skeptical about North Korea’s commitment to denuclearization and its willingness to engage in meaningful talks.
FAQs
Q: What is a hypersonic missile?
A: A hypersonic missile is a type of missile that travels at speeds above Mach 5, or five times the speed of sound.
Q: What is the significance of the new missile technology?
A: The new missile technology allows North Korea to hit further targets with technology to which only a few nations have access.
Q: What is the reaction of the international community to the launch?
A: The international community has condemned the launch, with the United States and South Korea expressing concerns about the missile’s capabilities and intentions.
Q: What is the significance of Kim’s daughter watching the launch?
A: The presence of Kim’s daughter at the launch is seen as a way to showcase the country’s military capabilities and to emphasize the importance of the missile program to the North Korean people.