(LEAD) N. Korea reports test-firing of 'tactical' ballistic missile to improve weapons systems

North Korea conducted a test-firing of a tactical ballistic missile on October 12, according to state media reports. The missile administration claimed the test was a big success, signaling an important advancement in their weapons systems. The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that the test aimed to confirm improvements in a key component of their offensive weaponry. However, North Korea did not provide further details about the specific missile used in the test.

The Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) in South Korea had earlier detected multiple ballistic missiles launched from Pyongyang towards the East Sea. They stated that these launches included various types of missiles, with one particular type reaching over 900 kilometers in range. The South Korean and U.S. authorities are currently analyzing the characteristics of these missiles.

On Monday, the U.S. Pacific Command (PACOM) confirmed that North Korea had conducted two ballistic missile launches. This marked their 16th ballistic missile test in 2021, occurring nine days after their previous launch on October 3. Additionally, these launches took place four days after South Korea publicly announced its first successful test-firing of a hypersonic glide vehicle (HGV).

The HGV, described as a potential game changer on the battlefield due to its high speed (Mach 5 or faster) and maneuverable trajectory, was showcased during a ceremony attended by President Lee Jae Myung.

The South Korean government's announcement of the hypersonic missile test was viewed as a demonstration of their deterrence capabilities against North Korea. This follows a land mine explosion in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) on September 21, which injured three South Korean soldiers.