North Korea has announced the firing of 18 short-range ballistic missiles as part of a military drill led by leader Kim Jong Un. The drill, involving “super-large” multiple rocket launchers, was reportedly a demonstration of North Korea’s readiness to launch a pre-emptive strike against South Korea if deemed necessary.
The South Korean government has confirmed the launch, detecting at least 10 missiles fired off the east coast. Officials in Seoul have condemned the action, labeling it as provocative and a threat to peace on the Korean peninsula.
Despite North Korea’s denial of arms deals with Russia, the launch is seen as a potential display for prospective weapons buyers.
Photos released by North Korean state media depicted the missiles rising from mobile launchers. Experts have identified the projectiles as KN-25s, suggesting a capability that blurs the line between multiple-launch rocket systems and short-range ballistic missiles.
North Korea has asserted that tactical nuclear weapons could be fitted to such missiles, with leader Kim Jong Un urging readiness to carry out war deterrence missions. The drill also showcased a newly unveiled fire-control system, emphasizing North Korea’s commitment to defending its sovereignty.
Responding, the United States has condemned the launch, labeling it as reckless and a violation of multiple U.N. Security Council resolutions. The U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency has reported analysis indicating that Russia has deployed North Korean missiles in its war in Ukraine.
South Korea has condemned the missile launch as part of a series of provocations by North Korea, which also included sending balloons carrying trash across the border. Seoul has warned of strong counter-measures if such actions persist.
In addition, North Korea has been accused of jamming GPS signals near the border, affecting over 900 aircraft and vessels. Despite no actual damage reported, the act has heightened tensions in the region.
Amidst the escalating situation, North Korean media criticized the deployment of U.S. reconnaissance aircraft near the Korean peninsula, citing it as an infringement on North Korea’s sovereignty. South Korean media reported sightings of U.S. military spy planes in the region this week.
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