N Korea successfully tests new hypersonic ballistic missile to ‘deter rivals’ in Pacific

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un says the country's new hypersonic ballistic missile will bolster its deterrent strength against adversaries in the Pacific region.

Overseeing the missile launch, Kim said "the hypersonic missile system will reliably contain any rivals in the Pacific region that can affect the security of our state," the North Korean state media (KCNA) reported on Tuesday.

The news agency highlighted the missile's use of a "new compound of carbon fiber" in its engine, a technology currently possessed only by the US, Russia, and China, which could enable North Korea to reach further targets.

The launch also featured a "new comprehensive and effective method" for flight and guidance control.

Kim stated that the missile launched on Monday flew 1,500 kilometers (930 miles) — surpassing the 1,100-kilometer figure reported by South Korea — and reached speeds of up to 12 times the speed of sound before landing in the ocean.

He emphasized that the launch was a defensive measure rather than an offensive one, while also asserting that the missile's capabilities could not be overlooked globally, indicating it could deliver a significant military strike while overcoming robust defensive systems.

"The development of the defense capabilities of the DPRK aiming to be a military power will be further accelerated," Kim said, using the official name for the country, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK).

The missile launch marked North Korea's first this year and the last one since November, when it tested what it said was its most advanced solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).

The specific location of the missile test was not disclosed, but images revealed it was launched from a remote area bordered by water and stripped of trees due to winter conditions.

Experts have highlighted the unique technology among nations, noting that if successful, it means that the missile could achieve ranges between 3,000 to 5,000 kilometers.

North Korea launches ballistic missile as US secretary of state visits South

North Korea has fired an unknown missile towards the Sea of Japan, coinciding with a visit by Antony Blinken to South Korea.

This missile test coincided with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to the region.

In a joint news conference on Monday, Blinken reaffirmed his country’s “unwavering” security commitment to South Korea and called for a strong defensive stance against North Korea’s so-called provocations, while emphasizing the importance of strengthening trilateral cooperation with Japan.

Blinken also warned of Pyongyang’s deepening ties with Moscow. He claimed Russia intended to share space and satellite technology with North Korea in exchange for its support for the Ukraine war.

North Korea and Russia have strengthened their military ties in recent years.

Analysts interpreted the launch as a strategic message to the United States, particularly as president-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office, suggesting that any future dialogue must consider North Korea's enhanced military position.

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