Kim Jong Un oversees AI missile launch; North Korea claims manoeuvring capabilities

North Korea has unveiled a new missile equipped with artificial intelligence technology, enabling the weapon to alter its flight path unpredictably, according to Pyongyang. This development has heightened global concerns over the isolated nation's advancements in missile technology.

During a recent launch overseen by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, state media reported that the missile showcased advanced maneuvering capabilities, including low-altitude flight. Kim Yo Jong, the sister of Kim Jong Un and a senior North Korean official, described the missile's flight as exhibiting a "wave-like" trajectory that could complicate enemy tracking and interception efforts.

Pyongyang claims the missile is fitted with an AI-based guidance system that enables real-time adjustments to its flight path. This advanced guidance system allows the missile to evade enemy missile defense systems by making it harder for them to predict and intercept the weapon.

North Korea frames the test as evidence of its progress in developing weapons capable of penetrating advanced missile defense networks. The missile is classified as an intermediate-range strategic ballistic missile connected to Pyongyang's hypersonic strategic weapon system.

South Korea estimates the missile was launched from the Wonsan area and traveled over 700 kilometers towards the East Sea. However, North Korean state media claimed the missile struck a target approximately 1,000 kilometers away.

South Korea's defense ministry stated that the missile remains within the detection and interception capabilities of South Korean and US defense assets. They emphasized that both countries maintain a robust combined defense posture and assessed that the weapon could be detected and intercepted.