Seoul: North Korean military activities have raised concerns as South Korean Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back revealed that North Korea may attempt to launch a new intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) within this year. Ahn’s statement, made during an interview with Yonhap News Agency, highlighted movements detected near a missile launch pad. This development comes as Pyongyang continues to enhance its weapons capabilities, potentially with technological support from Russia, amidst their strengthening military ties. North Korea’s most recent ICBM test, involving the Hwasong-19, occurred in October of the previous year.
According to Kuwait News Agency, North Korea recently showcased the Hwasong-20 ICBM for the first time during a significant military parade, which was attended by high-ranking officials from China and Russia. Despite the North’s progress in missile technology, Defense Minister Ahn noted that while North Korea’s ICBMs might be capable of reaching the US mainland in terms of distance, the nation has yet to secure critical technologies such as atmospheric reentry and multiple warhead deployment.
Ahn also disclosed that South Korea plans to deploy the Hyunmoo-5 missile by the end of this year. This missile is a key element of the country’s strategy to counteract a major North Korean offensive and aims to establish a “balance of terror” comparable to North Korea’s nuclear threats. Mass production of the Hyunmoo-5 has commenced, and efforts are underway to significantly boost production capacity.
The Hyunmoo-5, a large ground-to-ground missile known for its substantial size, is capable of carrying a warhead weighing approximately eight tons and is designed to destroy underground bunkers.