North Korea has carried out new hypersonic missile tests under the supervision of leader Kim Jong-un, highlighting the country’s push to strengthen its nuclear deterrent ahead of a major political meeting, the Workers’ Party congress.
The tests were reported on Monday, a day after neighboring countries detected multiple ballistic missile launches, which they described as provocations. The launches coincided with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung’s departure for China to meet President Xi Jinping.
Kim Emphasizes Military Readiness
According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Sunday’s drill involved a hypersonic weapon system and aimed to evaluate combat readiness, enhance missile units’ operational skills, and test the capabilities of North Korea’s war deterrent.
Kim said the exercise confirmed that “a very important technology task for national defence has been carried out” and stressed the need to continuously upgrade military capabilities, particularly offensive weapons. A functioning hypersonic missile would give North Korea the ability to bypass U.S. and South Korean missile defence systems, though many experts remain skeptical that the missiles tested so far have achieved the required speed and maneuverability.
Expanded Weapons Program Signals Ambitions
In recent weeks, North Korea has also test-fired long-range strategic cruise missiles and new anti-air systems, while releasing images suggesting progress on its first nuclear-powered submarine. Analysts say these tests are part of a broader effort to showcase military advancements ahead of the five-yearly Workers’ Party congress, where Kim could outline potential shifts in U.S. relations or revisit stalled denuclearization talks.
Regional Tensions Influence Strategy
The missile tests came after a dramatic U.S. operation that removed Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and brought him to the United States on narco-terrorism conspiracy charges. North Korea condemned the operation, calling it evidence of the “rogue and brutal nature of the U.S.”
Experts suggest that such developments reinforce Kim’s determination to expand his nuclear arsenal, which he views as vital to protecting his government and national sovereignty. During Sunday’s drill, Kim defended the program, noting that recent geopolitical crises and complex international events demonstrate the importance of maintaining a strong nuclear deterrent.
