North Korea has conducted new test-flights of hypersonic missiles under the direct supervision of leader Kim Jong-un, emphasizing the need to strengthen the country’s nuclear deterrent. The drills come as Pyongyang ramps up military activity ahead of the ruling Workers’ Party congress, its first in five years.
The announcement came a day after South Korea and neighboring countries reported detecting multiple ballistic missile launches, which they described as provocative. The timing was notable, occurring just hours before South Korean President Lee Jae Myung left for China to meet President Xi Jinping.
Kim Highlights Military Readiness
State media reported that Sunday’s drill tested a hypersonic weapon system to evaluate combat readiness, improve missile troops’ operational skills, and assess the country’s overall war deterrent.
“Through today’s launching drill, we can confirm that a very important technology task for national defence has been carried out,” Kim said, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). He stressed the importance of continuously upgrading the military, particularly offensive weapon systems.
A fully operational hypersonic missile would allow North Korea to penetrate U.S. and South Korean missile defense systems. While the country has conducted multiple hypersonic-related tests in recent years, many experts remain skeptical about whether the missiles have consistently achieved the necessary speed and maneuverability.
Recent Weapons Activity Signals Ambitions
In recent weeks, North Korea has also test-fired what it described as long-range strategic cruise missiles and new anti-air systems. State media released images suggesting progress on the construction of the country’s first nuclear-powered submarine.
Observers say these demonstrations are part of a broader effort to showcase the country’s weapons development achievements ahead of the Workers’ Party congress. Analysts are watching closely to see if Kim will use the event to outline a new approach toward the United States or signal a return to long-dormant denuclearization talks.
Tensions Rise Amid Global Events
The missile launches followed a high-profile U.S. military operation that removed Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and brought him to the United States to face narco-terrorism conspiracy charges. North Korea condemned the move, calling it further proof of the “rogue and brutal nature of the U.S.”
Experts suggest that such events are likely to reinforce Kim’s determination to expand North Korea’s nuclear arsenal, which he views as essential to ensuring the survival of his government and the country’s sovereignty. During Sunday’s drill, Kim defended his nuclear program, saying its necessity is underscored by “the recent geopolitical crisis and complicated international events.”
