North Korea’s Kim Jong Un oversees test-firing of submarine-launched cruise missiles
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervised the test-firing of submarine-launched cruise missiles and inspected the development of a nuclear-powered submarine, state media reported on Sunday. The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) stated that the new strategic cruise missile, the Pulhwasal-3-31, successfully hit its targets after flying over the East Sea for approximately 7,421 and 7,445 seconds.
Although the KCNA did not disclose the exact distances covered by the missiles, South Korea’s military reported that multiple cruise missiles were launched by North Korea around 8 am near the eastern port city of Shinpo. This location is significant as it houses a shipyard responsible for constructing North Korean submarines.
The Pulhwasal-3-31 is a recently developed cruise missile that was test-fired for the first time last Wednesday. However, the missile’s submarine-launched capabilities were only revealed four days later. Cruise missiles have the advantage of flying at low altitudes and possessing strong maneuverability, making them difficult to intercept using traditional missile defense systems.
According to the Yonhap News Agency, Kim Jong Un emphasized the urgent need to equip the navy with nuclear weapons. He stated that the nuclear weaponization of the navy is an urgent task of the times and a core requirement for building the state nuclear strategic force. The North Korean leader also outlined important tasks for realizing the navy’s nuclear weaponization and expanding the scope of the state’s nuclear deterrence in various ways.
In addition to reviewing the submarine-launched cruise missile test, Kim discussed the construction of a nuclear-powered submarine and other advanced warships. The details of these discussions were not disclosed.
North Korea’s recent missile tests and nuclear ambitions continue to raise concerns among the international community. These actions defy United Nations resolutions and heighten regional tension. The development of submarine-launched cruise missiles and nuclear-powered submarines are seen as significant advancements in North Korea’s military capabilities.
As the situation unfolds, neighboring countries and world powers will closely monitor North Korea’s actions and assess their implications for regional security.
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