Amid heightened tensions across the region, North Korea launched multiple cruise missiles into the sea off its east coast, marking its fifth such demonstration since January, South Korea’s military confirmed. The missiles were fired at 9 am local time from the coastal city of Wonsan, signaling an ongoing series of weapons tests that have raised alarms in Seoul and beyond.
The South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) announced the launches, emphasizing the country’s heightened state of surveillance under the nuclear umbrella of United States in response to North Korea’s actions. However, details regarding the number of missiles launched and their exact range remain undisclosed, leaving questions about whether these were land-based or sea-launched missiles.
This latest series of tests follows North Korea’s January showcase of a new strategic cruise missile, capable of carrying a nuclear warhead, and a SLCM. Ahn Chan-il, a North Korean defector and researcher, suggested that these tests might aim to refine weapon quality before potential shipments to Moscow, following reports of previous arms exports to Russia.
Amid these provocations, North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong-un, has issued threats towards South Korea, i.e; military confrontation. These missile tests, including the development of cruise missiles designed to evade missile defenses, underscore North Korea’s strategic aim to be recognized as a nuclear power, seeking concessions from the international community and international isolation .
In response to these developments by North Korea, the United States is providing extended nuclear deterrence to South Korea and Japan and preparing well to bolster their nuclear defense strategies and military collaboration.
