North Korea Holds First Underwater-Launched Missile Tests in Nearly 3 Years
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — North Korea performed its first underwater-launched missile tests in nearly three years on Wednesday, likely from an as-yet-deployed submarine that it says is designed to launch nuclear weapons.
On Wednesday, North Korea conducted its first underwater-launched missile tests in nearly three years, possibly from a submarine designed to carry nuclear weapons, according to the official Korean Central News Agency. The tests, aimed at assessing the readiness of the country's underwater combat systems and demonstrating the reliability of its nuclear deterrent, involved two types of strategic cruise missiles launched from the eastern waters.
The agency's photos suggested the submarine used was the "Hero Kim Kun Ok," which was unveiled in 2023 with great fanfare but drew skepticism about its capabilities. This marks the first public weapons test from this submarine, suggesting North Korea began testing weapons systems before its deployment, potentially posing a significant threat to South Korea and the U.S. North Korea has been developing various underwater-launched missiles, which are difficult to detect in advance, and previously claimed the submarine could launch tactical nuclear weapons.
The submarine is believed to have at least 10 missile launch tubes in addition to its torpedo tubes. Analysts say the submarine's deployment would pose a significant threat due to the formidable nature of underwater-launched missiles. The tests come as North Korea is increasing weapons demonstrations to pressure the U.S. for greater concessions in talks.
Written by urgent.news from The Japan News by The Yomiuri Shimbun's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
