North Korea Successfully Tests New Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missile
North Korea has successfully test-fired a new intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) tipped with a hypersonic warhead, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
The missile was launched from the Pyongyang area on Monday and flew approximately 1,500 kilometers at a speed of 12 times the speed of sound, guided by leader Kim Jong Un. The KCNA reported that the hypersonic missile system will "reliably contain any rivals in the Pacific region that can affect the security of our state."
South Korean Military Detection
The South Korean military detected the launch of the IRBM from the Pyongyang area and reported that the missile flew about 1,100 kilometers before falling into the East Sea. The launch marks the first provocation in about two months, coming about two weeks before United States President-elect Donald Trump took office on January 20.
Political Turmoil in South Korea
The missile launch also comes amid political turmoil in South Korea sparked by President Yoon Suk Yeol’s botched martial law imposition last month and his subsequent impeachment by the National Assembly.
What is a Hypersonic Missile?
A hypersonic missile is typically hard to intercept with existing missile defense shields. It travels at a speed of at least Mach 5 and is designed to be maneuverable on unpredictable flight paths and fly at low altitudes.
Conclusion
The test-firing of the new IRBM is a significant development in North Korea’s military capabilities, demonstrating its ability to develop and deploy advanced weapons systems. The implications of this development are far-reaching, particularly in the context of regional and international relations.
FAQs
Q: What is the range of the new IRBM?
A: The missile flew approximately 1,500 kilometers.
Q: What is the speed of the new IRBM?
A: The missile flew at a speed of 12 times the speed of sound.
Q: What is the significance of the launch?
A: The launch demonstrates North Korea’s ability to develop and deploy advanced weapons systems, which may have significant implications for regional and international relations.
Q: What is a hypersonic missile?
A: A hypersonic missile is a type of missile that travels at a speed of at least Mach 5 and is designed to be maneuverable on unpredictable flight paths and fly at low altitudes.
Q: What is the significance of the timing of the launch?
A: The launch comes about two weeks before United States President-elect Donald Trump takes office, and amid political turmoil in South Korea.