North Korea has carried out test-flights of hypersonic missiles under the supervision of leader Kim Jong-un, highlighting the country’s determination to strengthen its nuclear deterrent. The tests come as Pyongyang increases weapons displays ahead of the upcoming Workers’ Party congress, its first in five years.
The announcement followed reports from neighbouring countries that multiple ballistic missile launches were detected, which they called provocations. The launches took place just hours before South Korean President Lee Jae Myung departed for China for talks with President Xi Jinping.
Kim Emphasizes Military Readiness
State media reported that Sunday’s drill involved a hypersonic missile system aimed at assessing combat readiness, improving missile troops’ operational skills, and testing North Korea’s overall war deterrent.
“Through today’s launching drill, we can confirm that a very important technology task for national defence has been carried out,” Kim said, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). He stressed the importance of continuing to upgrade the country’s military capabilities, particularly its offensive weapons.
Experts note that a functioning hypersonic missile would give North Korea the ability to bypass U.S. and South Korean missile defense systems. While North Korea has conducted multiple hypersonic tests in recent years, many foreign analysts remain skeptical about whether the missiles have consistently achieved the speed and maneuverability required for true hypersonic performance.
Recent Weapons Tests Show Growing Ambitions
In recent weeks, North Korea has also test-fired what it described as long-range strategic cruise missiles and new anti-air systems, while releasing images suggesting progress on its first nuclear-powered submarine.
Observers say these demonstrations are part of an effort to showcase the country’s technological and military achievements ahead of the party congress. Analysts are particularly focused on whether Kim will use the event to signal a new approach toward the United States or revive long-stalled denuclearization talks.
Rising Tensions Amid Global Events
The missile launches came shortly after a U.S. operation that removed Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and brought him to the United States on narco-terrorism conspiracy charges. North Korea condemned the operation, calling it evidence of the “rogue and brutal nature of the U.S.”
Many experts suggest that such developments may encourage Kim to further expand North Korea’s nuclear arsenal, which he views as essential to safeguarding his government and the country’s sovereignty. During the Sunday drill, Kim defended his nuclear program, stating that its necessity is underscored by “the recent geopolitical crisis and complicated international events.”
