North Korea has carried out test-flights of hypersonic missiles under the supervision of leader Kim Jong-un, highlighting the country’s push to strengthen its nuclear deterrent. The tests come as Pyongyang intensifies weapons demonstrations ahead of its major political gathering, the Workers’ Party congress.
The announcement followed reports from neighboring countries detecting multiple ballistic missile launches, which they labeled provocations. The launches occurred just hours before South Korean President Lee Jae Myung departed for China to meet President Xi Jinping.
Kim Highlights Military Preparedness
According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Sunday’s drill involved testing a hypersonic weapon system to assess combat readiness, improve the operational skills of missile troops, and evaluate the overall effectiveness of North Korea’s 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. He added that the country must continue to upgrade its military capabilities, particularly offensive weapons.
A fully operational hypersonic missile would allow North Korea to bypass U.S. and South Korean missile defense systems. While the country has conducted multiple tests in recent years, many experts remain skeptical about whether the missiles have consistently achieved the speed and maneuverability required to be considered true hypersonic weapons.
Recent Military Activity Signals Broader Ambitions
In recent weeks, North Korea has also test-fired what it described as long-range strategic cruise missiles and new anti-air systems. The state released images suggesting progress on its first nuclear-powered submarine.
Observers say these demonstrations are intended to highlight North Korea’s weapons development achievements ahead of the five-yearly Workers’ Party congress. Analysts are watching closely to see if Kim will use the gathering to signal changes in U.S. relations or revive stalled denuclearization talks.
Regional Tensions and Global Implications
The missile launches followed a U.S. military operation that ousted 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 developments reinforce Kim’s determination to expand North Korea’s nuclear arsenal, which he views as essential for protecting his government and national sovereignty. During Sunday’s drill, Kim defended the nuclear program, stating that recent geopolitical crises and complex international events demonstrate the need for a stronger deterrent.
