North Korea has conducted test-flights of hypersonic missiles under the supervision of leader Kim Jong-un, highlighting the country’s commitment to strengthening its nuclear deterrent. The tests come as Pyongyang increases weapons demonstrations ahead of its major political gathering, the Workers’ Party congress.
The announcement followed reports from neighboring countries that multiple ballistic missile launches had been detected, which they described as provocative. The launches coincided with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung’s departure for China to meet President Xi Jinping.
Kim Emphasizes Military Readiness
State media reported that Sunday’s drill tested a hypersonic weapon system to assess combat readiness, improve missile troops’ operational skills, and evaluate 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 added that North Korea must continue modernizing its military, particularly offensive weapon systems, to maintain strategic strength.
A functional hypersonic missile would give North Korea the ability to bypass U.S. and South Korean missile defense systems. While the country has carried out multiple hypersonic-related tests in past years, many experts remain skeptical that the missiles have consistently reached the speed and maneuverability needed to be considered fully operational.
Weapons Demonstrations Signal Broader Ambitions
In addition to hypersonic tests, North Korea recently fired long-range strategic cruise missiles and new anti-air systems. Images released by state media also suggest progress on the construction of the country’s first nuclear-powered submarine.
Observers say these tests are meant to showcase the regime’s achievements in weapons development ahead of the Workers’ Party congress. Analysts are closely watching to see whether Kim will use the gathering to signal a new approach toward the United States or revive long-dormant denuclearization talks.
Global Tensions Influence North Korea’s Strategy
The missile launches came shortly after a U.S. operation that removed Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and brought him to the United States to face narco-terrorism conspiracy charges. North Korea condemned the action, calling it evidence of the “rogue and brutal nature of the U.S.”
Many experts say such events are likely to reinforce Kim’s determination to expand his nuclear arsenal, which he views as essential to protecting the survival of his government and the country’s sovereignty. During Sunday’s drill, Kim defended his nuclear program, stating that its necessity is underscored by “the recent geopolitical crisis and complicated international events.”
