The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) confirmed the drills on Monday, a day after neighbouring countries reported detecting multiple ballistic missile launches by North Korea
By Owoseni Marthins
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has overseen test flights of hypersonic missiles, highlighting what state media described as the need to strengthen the country’s nuclear deterrent amid “the recent geopolitical crisis” and “complicated international events.”
The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) confirmed the drills on Monday, a day after neighbouring countries reported detecting multiple ballistic missile launches by North Korea.
The tests took place just hours before South Korean President Lee Jae Myung departed for China for a summit with President Xi Jinping.
According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Sunday’s drill involving a hypersonic weapons system was conducted to assess combat readiness, enhance the operational firepower of missile units, and evaluate the effectiveness of the country’s war deterrent.
“Through today’s launch drill, we have confirmed that a very important technological task for national defence has been successfully carried out,” Kim said, as quoted by KCNA. “We must continuously upgrade our military capabilities, especially offensive weapons systems.”
KCNA reported that the missiles struck targets about 1,000 kilometres (621 miles) away, over the sea east of North Korea.
Kim added that maintaining or expanding a strong and reliable nuclear deterrent is “a very important strategy” in light of “the recent geopolitical crisis and various international circumstances.”
The missile launch followed a statement issued by North Korea on Sunday condemning U.S. attacks on Venezuela and the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
Observers say North Korea is seeking to showcase or review its progress in weapons development ahead of the ruling Workers’ Party Congress, the first such gathering in five years.
Close attention is focused on whether Kim will use the congress to outline a new approach to relations with the United States and revive long-stalled talks.
Separately, North Korea’s nuclear programme is expected to feature in discussions when South Korean President Lee Jae Myung meets Chinese President Xi Jinping at a summit later on Monday.
Lee’s office has said he will urge China North Korea’s key ally and main economic lifeline to play “a constructive role” in efforts to promote peace on the Korean Peninsula.
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