North Korea has conducted test-flights of hypersonic missiles under the supervision of leader Kim Jong-un, signaling a renewed emphasis on strengthening the country’s nuclear deterrent ahead of its upcoming Workers’ Party congress. The launches come amid heightened regional tensions and follow reports from neighbouring countries that multiple ballistic missiles were detected.
The tests were carried out just hours before South Korean President Lee Jae Myung left for China to meet President Xi Jinping, underscoring the geopolitical significance of the timing.
Kim Emphasizes Military Readiness
According to state media, the drill tested a hypersonic weapon system to evaluate combat readiness, improve missile troops’ operational skills, and assess the country’s overall war deterrent. Kim described the exercise as a success, saying it confirmed “a very important technology task for national defence has been carried out.”
He added that North Korea must continue modernizing its military, particularly its offensive weapons, to respond to ongoing global uncertainties. A fully operational hypersonic missile would give the country the ability to bypass missile defence systems in both the United States and South Korea, though experts remain skeptical about whether past tests have achieved the required speed and manoeuvrability.
Expanding Military Capabilities
In recent weeks, Pyongyang has also tested long-range strategic cruise missiles and new anti-air systems, while releasing images suggesting progress on its first nuclear-powered submarine. Analysts say these demonstrations aim to showcase North Korea’s military advancements ahead of the five-yearly party congress, where Kim may outline a new approach to U.S. relations or signal a potential revival of stalled denuclearization talks.
Regional Tensions and Strategic Signaling
The missile tests follow a bold 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 move, describing it as proof of the “rogue and brutal nature of the U.S.”
Many analysts believe such events strengthen Kim’s rationale for expanding the nuclear arsenal, which he views as essential to protecting his government and national sovereignty. During the drill, Kim defended the nuclear program, saying its necessity is clear in light of “recent geopolitical crises and complicated international events.”
