North Korea claims successful launch of Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM) with hypersonic warhead technology
North Korea Claims Test-Fired Hypersonic Warhead Missile
Seoul, April 4 (IANS) – North Korea announced the successful test-firing of a new intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) equipped with a hypersonic warhead. The missile, known as Hwasong-16, was guided by leader Kim Jong-un and is a solid-fuel and nuclear-capable weapon with warhead control capability.
This test follows a previous launch of an intermediate-range hypersonic missile in January and a ground jet test of a solid-fuel engine for a new IRBM last month. Kim Jong-un described the Hwasong-16 as a “powerful, strategic offensive weapon,” underscoring North Korea’s progress in developing advanced missile technology.
The hypersonic missile is designed to be difficult to intercept due to its high speed and maneuverability. During the recent test, the hypersonic glide warhead flew as planned, reaching impressive altitudes and hitting its target in the East Sea.
Kim Jong-un emphasized the need for North Korea to develop powerful capabilities to counter its enemies, citing military threats and provocations from outside forces. The country has been conducting various weapons tests this year, including missile launches and firing drills involving multiple rocket launchers.
As North Korea gears up for major events in April, including parliamentary elections in South Korea and significant political gatherings in Pyongyang, the South Korean military is closely monitoring the situation. The upcoming celebrations of Kim Il-sung’s birthday and the Korean People’s Revolutionary Army’s founding anniversary add to the tensions in the region.
