North Korea tests new ballistic missiles, hints at supplying Russia
On 18 September, North Korea tested new tactical ballistic missiles with massive warheads and a modified cruise missile. According to the KCNA news agency, the tests were personally overseen by Kim Jong Un. It is possible that this weapon could also be sent to Russia.
"The tests to improve weapons capabilities are required because of the grave threat posed by outside forces to the security of the country," said the leader of the North Korean regime, as quoted by KCNA.
Strengthening North Korea's nuclear forces
According to the statement, on 18 September, tests of the new Hwasongpho-11-Da-4.5 tactical ballistic missiles were conducted. These missiles belong to the short-range ballistic missile category, which Pyongyang is developing as part of its programme. During the tests, they were to cover approximately 320 kilometres. It was also added that a certain number of these missiles could be delivered to Russia.
The Hwasongpho-11-Da-4.5 stands out primarily due to its warhead (conventional), with which it is equipped. It weighs as much as 5 tonnes, which likely translates to the high destructive power of this ballistic missile. Furthermore, the North Korean military "also conducted a test-fire of strategic cruise missile whose performance has been highly upgraded for its combat use." Still, KCNA did not provide more detailed information on this topic.
Russia's biggest ally
KCNA reported that Kim Jong Un emphasised the importance of further strengthening nuclear forces, possessing the most advanced technologies, and having "overwhelming offensive capability" in conventional weaponry.
The Reuters agency noted that the Hwasongpho-11-Da-4.5 is still in the testing phase and much information about it remains shrouded in secrecy, but it is possible that they will indeed be sent to Russia. Putin's army may be interested in them "if its performance and reliability can be guaranteed through further testing."
Approval to transfer more weapons to Russia will not be an issue for the North Korean regime. Since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, Kim Jong Un's regime has tightened cooperation with Russia significantly, becoming its most significant ally. For months, shipments of 122 mm and 152 mm artillery ammunition, as well as KN-23 (Hwasong-11Ga) ballistic missiles with warheads weighing up to 500 kilograms, have been sent.
