Kim Jong Un Attends Deployment of 250 New Tactical Ballistic Missile Launchers
In a significant move, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un attended a ceremony on the evening of August 4, marking the deployment of 250 new tactical ballistic missile launchers near the border with South Korea. During his speech at the event, Kim Jong Un accused the United States of creating a “nuclear-based military bloc,” which he claimed forced Pyongyang to bolster its military capabilities.
Accusations Against the US and Military Enhancements
Kim Jong Un highlighted that the deployment of these missile launchers represents the successful execution of a crucial task outlined at the Eighth Congress of the Workers’ Party of Korea in January 2021. He further announced that North Korea would enhance its nuclear readiness in the near future to deter nuclear threats and ensure the country’s protection.
Details on the New Tactical Ballistic Missile System
The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) did not provide specific details about the new tactical ballistic missile system or the location of the ceremony. However, the event was clearly a demonstration of North Korea’s military strength and recent advancements. The sight of hundreds of missile launchers lined up in a vast area was intended to impress and intimidate.
Potential Capabilities of the “Hwasong-11” Missile
Based on photographs released by KCNA, the new missile system is likely the “Hwasong-11,” with a range of 120-220 km. Each launcher can carry up to four missiles. These launchers are expected to be positioned in the military demarcation zone with South Korea.
Recent Missile Tests and Regional Reactions
Last month, North Korea announced it had tested a new tactical ballistic missile, believed to be the Hwasong-11Da-4.5. This missile can carry a “super-large” warhead weighing up to 4.5 tons and has a range of 90-500 km. Lee Sung Joon, spokesman for the South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff, stated at a press conference on August 5 that these missile launchers are designed for various purposes, including attacking or threatening South Korea. He noted that deploying them near the border suggests a limited range.
Implications for South Korea
If North Korea’s claims about the “Hwasong-11” missile are accurate, many major South Korean cities would be within its range. Seoul, the capital, is less than 50 km from the border, while Incheon is approximately 60 km away. This development comes as the United States and its regional allies, including South Korea and Japan, are strengthening their military ties. The defense ministers of the three countries recently signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance trilateral relations, which includes real-time sharing of information on North Korean missile threats.
Conclusion
The deployment of 250 new tactical ballistic missile launchers by North Korea is a significant development in the region. Kim Jong Un’s accusations against the US and the display of military strength underscore the rising tensions. As North Korea continues to advance its missile capabilities, the international community remains on high alert, closely monitoring these developments.
