Seoul, South Korea. North Korea launched a potential intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) on Monday morning, signaling an advancement in the reclusive state’s illicit weapons program, according to analysts. The missile, if confirmed as an ICBM, displayed the capability to reach anywhere in the United States, as reported by the Japanese Defense Ministry.
Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Defense Shingo Miyake stated at a news conference in Tokyo that based on the trajectory and potential warhead weight, the missile could have a range exceeding 15,000 kilometers (9,320 miles), covering the entire US territory. The missile reportedly flew at a highly lofted trajectory for approximately 73 minutes, reaching an altitude of 6,000 kilometers (3,700 miles) and a distance of about 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) before landing in the sea west of Hokkaido, Japan.
Analysts, however, caution that the missile would need to be fired at a flatter trajectory to pose a direct threat to the United States. Joseph Dempsey of the International Institute for Strategic Studies emphasized that lofted tests do not present the same challenges as a normal ICBM trajectory, including the warhead’s ability to survive reentry and maintain accuracy over longer distances.
While the specific missile type was not officially disclosed, Jeffrey Lewis of the Middlebury Institute of International Studies suggested that Monday’s test was likely the third launch of the Hwasong-18 missile, a powerful solid-fueled ICBM previously tested in April and July. This development indicates a maturing North Korean missile program, demonstrating a record of reliability.
The Hwasong-18, a solid-fueled missile, represents a more advanced technology compared to the liquid-fueled Hwasong-17 tested earlier this year. Solid-fueled ICBMs are considered more stable and can be deployed more rapidly, enhancing North Korea’s ability to launch long-range nuclear strikes.
North Korea’s recent missile advancements align with Kim Jong Un’s goal of matching the military capabilities of other nations, such as the United States and European countries. The country’s progression from the Hwasong-17 to the Hwasong-18 indicates ongoing development and technological refinement.
The launch comes less than 24 hours after North Korea conducted another ballistic missile test towards the waters off the east coast of the Korean Peninsula. The consecutive tests have triggered international concern and condemnation, with North Korea accusing the US and South Korea of “reckless military provocations.”
Experts suggest that North Korea’s provocative actions and strong rhetoric may be contributing to increased trilateral cooperation between the US, Japan, and South Korea. The countries are reportedly sharing real-time missile tracking data, underscoring the geopolitical tensions in the region.
As the global community closely monitors the situation, North Korea’s continued missile testing poses challenges for regional stability and security, prompting responses from neighboring countries and heightened diplomatic efforts.
