North Korea launches missiles during US-South Korea drills, raising regional security concerns
North Korea has conducted a major missile test, firing around 10 ballistic missiles toward the Sea of Japan, marking its third launch of 2026 and escalating regional tensions.
According to state media, the missiles were launched from an upgraded multiple rocket launcher system (KN-25) and targeted an island approximately 360 kilometers away. The exercise involved two artillery units and 12 launchers, overseen by leader Kim Jong Un, who described the drill as part of routine defense readiness and deterrence testing.
South Korea’s military confirmed detecting the launches from the Sunan area near Pyongyang, with the missiles traveling about 350 kilometers. Japan also tracked the test, stating the projectiles reached an altitude of 80 kilometers and landed outside its exclusive economic zone, posing no immediate threat.
The KN-25 system, capable of firing 600 mm-caliber missiles, blurs the line between rocket artillery and short-range ballistic missiles, increasing concerns over its range and destructive capability.
The launch took place during the annual Freedom Shield military drills conducted by the United States and South Korea, which North Korea frequently criticizes as preparations for invasion. In response, Pyongyang often carries out missile tests to demonstrate military strength.
The United States Indo-Pacific Command said it is closely coordinating with allies and monitoring the situation, while Japan condemned the launches as a violation of UN Security Council resolutions and a threat to regional stability.
Kim Jong Un emphasized that such tests would continue, warning that the weapons could make targets within a 420-kilometer range “uneasy”, underscoring their potential role in tactical nuclear capabilities.
As tensions rise on the Korean Peninsula, the missile launches highlight ongoing challenges to regional security and global stability.
Source: USNI News