(LEAD) N. Korea test-fires upgraded multiple-rocket launcher shells

SEOUL, September 24 - North Korea announced on Thursday the test-firing of shells for an enhanced 240mm multiple rocket launcher system, emphasizing the need to position the most lethal attack forces along the border with South Korea. The test, conducted under the country's five-year plan for modernizing artillery and missile forces, was reported by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

Military officials overseeing the test stated that the development of range-extended rockets assures them of a significant improvement in firepower readiness along the southern border, according to the KCNA report. Pak Jong-chon, vice chairman of the Central Military Commission of the ruling Workers Party, stressed the importance of concentrating the deadliest and most destructive attack forces on the southern border, emphasizing the need to make the enemy aware of North Korea's upgraded long-range strike capabilities.

The newly-equipped rockets, featuring an autonomous pinpoint guide system, possess the ability to strike targets up to 100 kilometers away in a trajectory flight mode and 115 kilometers away in a combined glide mode, as reported by the KCNA. Following North Korea's declaration of inter-Korean relations as hostile in 2023, the nation appears to have prioritized upgrading the performance of its striking means, potentially placing South Korea within its range of attack.

South Korea's military reported detecting North Korea's firing of multiple rounds towards the Yellow Sea on Tuesday and is currently conducting a thorough analysis. The military emphasized its ability to maintain overwhelming capabilities against any provocations and closely monitored North Korean activities under the combined South Korea-U.S. defense posture.