North Korea Launches Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missile, Raising Concerns of Targeting American Bases
In a provocative move, North Korea launched an intermediate-range ballistic missile off its east coast on Tuesday, signaling its ongoing efforts to develop missiles capable of targeting American military bases in the Western Pacific.
The missile, launched from near Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea, did not fly over Japan as previous IRBMs have done. Instead, it fell in waters between the two countries after flying for 372 miles, according to the South Korean military.
Analysts believe that the test may have involved a new intermediate-range hypersonic missile powered by a solid-fuel engine, a technology that North Korea has been working on to enhance the speed and difficulty of interception of its missiles.
North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong-un, has emphasized the strategic importance of these new intermediate-range missiles, comparing them in value to intercontinental ballistic missiles that could target the mainland United States. The country has been ramping up its missile capabilities following the collapse of talks with President Donald J. Trump in 2018, which failed to reach an agreement on denuclearization and sanctions relief.
The launch of an IRBM is particularly concerning as it could potentially cover all of Japan and Guam, a U.S. territory in the Western Pacific. North Korea views U.S. military bases in Japan and Guam as key targets in the event of a conflict, as they would serve as launchpads for American reinforcement forces.
While North Korea lacks sophisticated warplanes or submarines, its missile program remains a significant threat. The country has also been conducting tests involving underwater drones and cruise missiles, with the goal of developing nuclear-capable weapons.
Despite the Pentagon’s assessment that North Korea’s ballistic missiles have the capability to carry nuclear payloads, using them against the United States or its allies would likely result in the regime’s demise. However, North Korea continues to enhance its nuclear threat, with plans to launch several reconnaissance satellites this year to improve its military monitoring capabilities.
There are concerns that North Korea may be receiving assistance from Russia in advancing its satellite and missile technologies. The country has been accused of providing support to Russia in its war in Ukraine in exchange for oil, military technology, and other aid. South Korean officials have reported preparations for another satellite launch from a spaceport in North Korea, raising further alarm among analysts.
