North Korea has announced the successful launch of a new intermediate-range ballistic missile tipped with a hypersonic warhead, claiming the weapon will “reliably contain any rivals” in the Pacific region. This launch, which marks Pyongyang’s first missile test in two months, occurred while US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was in Seoul for talks with key South Korean leaders.
Hypersonic missiles, which travel at more than five times the speed of sound, are known for their challenging nature when it comes to detection and interception. North Korea’s new missile was said to reach 12 times the speed of sound, traveling approximately 1,500 kilometers. South Korea’s military, however, reported that the missile flew 1,100 kilometers before falling into the sea, condemning the launch as a “clear act of provocation.”
This missile is similar to one launched by North Korea in April of the previous year, but Pyongyang claims it is equipped with an improved “flight and guidance control system” and a new engine made of carbon fibre. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un emphasized that the launch demonstrated the nation’s readiness to use “any means to defend our legitimate interests,” according to the state news agency KCNA.
Experts, such as Ankit Panda from the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, stated that the launch of a new hypersonic missile was expected. The use of composite materials like carbon fibre is aimed at enhancing missile performance and increasing the likelihood of the warhead surviving the journey to its target.
Hypersonic missiles have existed for decades, but recent advancements have made them more agile and capable of performing evasive maneuvers, making interception more difficult. Some reports suggest that space-based sensors and intercept technologies could still detect and engage these missiles during the final phase of their flight, when they travel at a lower speed after re-entering the atmosphere.
During his visit to Seoul, Blinken also expressed concerns about Russia potentially sharing advanced space and satellite technology with North Korea, and warned that Russia might be close to recognizing Pyongyang as a nuclear power. Blinken reiterated the strength of the US-South Korea alliance, calling it a “cornerstone of peace and stability” on the Korean Peninsula.
In the midst of these tensions, South Korea has increased surveillance on future North Korean missile launches, collaborating with the US and Japan. The launch occurred amid political instability in South Korea, where President Yoon Suk Yeol faces impeachment and potential arrest after a controversial martial law attempt in December. North Korea had previously mocked Yoon’s actions, calling them “insane” and accusing him of dictatorial behavior.
This missile test follows North Korea’s previous missile launches in November, which came shortly before the US presidential election. Tensions between the US, South Korea, and North Korea continue to escalate, especially with Pyongyang’s provocative actions.