North Korea has announced the successful testing of two new types of cruise missiles that can be launched from underwater, highlighting efforts to strengthen its naval capabilities and nuclear deterrence.
According to North Korea’s state media, the tests were conducted over the East Sea. However, officials did not disclose whether the missiles were launched directly from a submarine or from another underwater platform.
Pyongyang described the weapons as “strategic missiles”, a term often associated with nuclear-capable weapons. However, the reports did not confirm whether the missiles carried nuclear warheads during the tests.
North Korea said the trials were aimed at improving its naval combat capabilities and strengthening its ability to deter potential threats at sea. South Korea’s military had not issued an official response to the reported tests at the time of the announcement.
North Korea Continues Missile Development
The latest tests come amid a series of weapons demonstrations by North Korea. According to the supplied report, country also conducted hypersonic missile tests on September 20 and October 3.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has repeatedly stressed the need to develop weapons capable of overcoming advanced air defence systems operated by South Korea and Japan. The country has also continued military activities involving live-fire exercises and the development of new naval vessels, contributing to tensions across the Korean Peninsula.