Kim Jong-un was present during the test of a large-caliber multiple rocket launcher, during which four missiles were fired
North Korea has declared that it will present “the next stage” of the nuclear deterrence plan at the next single party congress, the official North Korean press reported today.
The congress “will clarify plans for the next step aimed at strengthening the country’s nuclear deterrence force,” leader Kim Jong-un said on Tuesday during a ballistic missile launch, according to the KCNA news agency.
Accompanied by other North Korean officials, Kim was present during the test of a large-caliber multiple rocket launcher, during which four missiles were fired, KCNA reported.
While acknowledging that the development of the rocket launcher system has faced difficulties, Kim considered Tuesday’s test to be “of great importance in improving the effectiveness” of “strategic deterrence.”
The four rockets fired hit a target located more than 358 kilometers away, according to the North Korean leader.
The ballistic missiles were fired towards the Sea of Japan, and two of them landed outside the country’s exclusive economic zone, Japanese news agency Jiji Press reported, citing sources from the Japanese Ministry of Defense.
“The outcome and scope of this trial will be a source of deep moral suffering and a serious threat to forces that attempt to provoke a military confrontation with us,” Kim said.
This is the second test of the month for Pyongyang, following a volley of missiles fired just hours before the South Korean leader’s departure for an official visit to China.
It also occurred the day after a trip to Seoul by the United States War Department’s number three, Elbridge Colby, who hailed South Korea as a “model ally”.
North Korea has stepped up missile testing in recent years. Analysts indicate that the campaign aims to improve precision strike capabilities, challenge the United States and South Korea and test weapons, before eventually exporting them to Russia.
Pyongyang is preparing to hold the first congress in five years of the Workers’ Party of Korea, the single party, in the coming weeks.
In anticipation, Kim Jong-un ordered the expansion and modernization of the country’s missile production.
