Unveiling North Korea’s Military Arsenal: From ICBMs to Hypersonic Missiles.
North Korea, defying international restrictions, recently test-fired its most potent solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), continuing a streak of weapons tests in 2023.
This aggressive move aligns with Kim Jong-un’s assertion that Pyongyang is now an “irreversible” nuclear power. Delve into North Korea’s formidable arsenal, ranging from intercontinental ballistic missiles to cutting-edge hypersonic weaponry.
1. Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs)
ICBMs boast a minimum range of 5,500 kilometers (3,400 miles), designed primarily for nuclear warhead delivery.
Notable ICBMs include the Hwasong-14, capable of reaching Alaska, and the formidable Hwasong-17, showcased in 2022, capable of striking anywhere in the United States.
This year witnessed the successful test of Hwasong-18, North Korea’s first solid-fuel ICBM, enhancing storage, transport, and launch capabilities.
2. Cruise Missiles
Cruise missiles, jet-propelled and flying at lower altitudes, present challenges in detection and interception.
North Korea possesses short-, medium-, and long-range cruise missiles, with recent tests demonstrating a range of 1,500 kilometers, covering South Korea and parts of Japan.
3. Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missiles (IRBMs)
IRBMs, with a range of 3,000-5,500 kilometers, include the Hwasong-12, capable of targeting the US territory of Guam.
North Korea has fired variants of the Hwasong-12, violating UN Security Council sanctions prohibiting ballistic missile testing.
4. Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missile (SLBM)
The Pukguksong-3 is North Korea’s operational SLBM, offering mobility and stealth.
Questions persist regarding North Korea’s sea-based launch capabilities, with tests conducted from older vessels and submerged platforms.
5. Hypersonic Missiles
Hypersonic missiles, traveling at least Mach 5, provide increased speed and mid-flight maneuverability.
North Korea claimed the successful testing of its first hypersonic missile after multiple trials in 2021 and 2022.
6. Nuclear Warheads
North Korea conducted its first nuclear test in 2006 and reached its sixth and most powerful test in 2017.
Estimates suggest North Korea possesses enough material for “20 to 60 warheads,” with ongoing efforts to develop smaller tactical nuclear warheads.
Kim Jong-un’s pursuit of expanded nuclear capabilities, including weapon-grade nuclear materials and smaller warheads, underscores North Korea’s commitment to advancing its military prowess. The international community closely watches these developments, balancing concerns about regional security and diplomatic efforts.
Leave a Reply