Kim Jong Un tests new missile technology, eyes support for Russia
11 May 2024 10:14
Kim Jong Un oversaw the tests of a new missile launcher. This technology is expected to be delivered to the North Korean military later this year. It is also possible that it will be supplied to Russian soldiers at the front.
Kim Jong Un, the leader of North Korea, personally supervised the tests of the new multiple-launch rocket system of roughly 240 mm (approximately 9 inches) calibre. As reported by the official KCNA press agency, this new technology will be incorporated into the North Korean army's arsenal later this year.
On this occasion, Kim Jong Un emphasized his ambitions related to developing new weapons systems. Quoted by KCNA, the leader of North Korea said he wants "to take the production of this and other new weapons systems to a higher level to strengthen the army's combat capabilities."
The statement released by KCNA informs that eight missiles "hit the designated targets demonstrating the destructive potential." This suggests that the new missile launcher has significant offensive capabilities.
However, the Ministry of Defence of South Korea expressed its doubts about the authenticity of these tests. It was reported they were unable to confirm whether these tests actually took place.
Experts, cited by AFP, suspect that Pyongyang might be conducting tests of new missile and artillery systems with the idea of using them in the armed conflict in Ukraine. According to them, these new technologies may be sent to Russia, which is currently conducting military operations against Ukraine.
North Korea - Support for Russia
Recently, we reported that North Korea supports Russia in the conflict in Ukraine, supplying weapons, which it sees as an opportunity to test them in real combat conditions. Pacific Army Commander General Charles Flynn claims that for Pyongyang, it is a unique "laboratory." Ukraine warns that this cooperation has a significant impact on the conflict, citing examples of artillery and ballistic missiles supplied by North Korea that have significant destructive power.
