North Korea has successfully tested a solid-fueled engine for its new type of intermediate-range hypersonic missile. The development, reported by state media on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, indicates progress in Pyongyang’s efforts to develop a more powerful and agile missile capable of hitting more distant targets in the region, including Guam, a territory of the United States (US).[1]
The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that Kim Jong Un closely monitored the test conducted on March 19, 2024, at the Sohae Satellite Launching Ground in the northwestern part of the country. KCNA conveyed that Kim stated the strategic significance of the intermediate-range missile, emphasizing that it is as crucial as intercontinental ballistic missiles targeting the US mainland, and mentioned that “enemies know this well.” The report indicated that the timetable for completing the development of the new weapon system was determined “thanks to the significant success of the important test.”[2]
In 2021, Kim announced his intention to modernize the military and unveiled a range of technologically advanced weapon systems planned for development in North Korea, including hypersonic missiles. The country conducted a test in January of an intermediate-range hypersonic missile, which it said included a new solid-fuel engine. KCNA did not provide detailed information about the motor tested on March 19, 2024, and did not disclose the technical nature of the test.[3]
Solid-fueled missiles can be launched faster than their liquid-fueled counterparts and are theoretically easier to maneuver and conceal, making them more advantageous compared to others. Hypersonic weapons are designed to fly at speeds exceeding five times the speed of sound. If perfected, such systems could potentially challenge regional missile defense systems due to their speed and maneuverability.[4]
Pyongyang’s latest statement came a day after North Korea announced that Kim had overseen military exercises involving “newly equipped super-large” multiple rocket launchers. North Korea has been conducting provocative missile tests since 2022. In response, the US and South Korean militaries have expanded their bilateral exercises, and Japan has joined in trilateral exercises.[5]
The successful test of a solid-fueled engine for North Korea’s new type of intermediate-range hypersonic missile is a significant development in terms of international relations and security. This test demonstrates Pyongyang’s ongoing efforts to enhance its military capabilities and alter the balance in the region.
This development represents a significant advancement in North Korea’s hypersonic missile program, which was announced by leader Kim Jong Un as part of the military modernization plan unveiled in 2021. Hypersonic missiles differ significantly from traditional missiles as they can travel at speeds exceeding five times the speed of sound. This makes them more challenging targets for regional missile defense systems.
The preference for solid-fueled missiles enables faster launches and better concealment, enhancing North Korea’s missile program’s technical capabilities and strategic flexibility. Additionally, North Korea’s advancements in military technology could potentially alter power dynamics in the region and influence the international security environment.
This development could lead to serious concerns among other regional actors such as the United States, South Korea, and Japan. These countries are likely to strengthen their own defense systems in response to the increase in North Korea’s military capacity. Additionally, such tests could escalate tensions in the region and undermine diplomatic efforts.
North Korea’s provocative actions draw attention from the international community and contribute to instability in the region. Therefore, it is important to closely monitor such developments and encourage dialogue among all actors in the region. In the long term, diplomatic solutions must be sought to prevent conflict and instability.
In conclusion, the successful test of a solid-fueled engine for North Korea’s new type of intermediate-range hypersonic missile represents a significant development affecting the security dynamics in the region. This test underscores North Korea’s ongoing efforts to enhance its military capacity and strengthen its strategic position. However, such provocative actions can escalate tensions in the region and undermine diplomatic efforts. Therefore, it is important for the international community to closely monitor such developments and seek diplomatic solutions to prevent instability in the region. In the long term, promoting dialogue among all parties and avoiding conflict are crucial for ensuring peace and stability in the region.
[1] “North Korea Claims Progress in Development of Hypersonic Missile”, Al Jazeera, https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/3/20/north-korea-claims-progress-in-development-of-hypersonic-missile, (Access Date: 23.03.2024).
[2] “North Korea Claims Progress in Developing a Hypersonic Missile Designed to Strike Distant U.S. Targets”, NBC News, https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/north-korea-claims-progress-developing-hypersonic-missile-rcna144201, (Access Date: 23.03.2024).
[3] “North Korea Claims Progress in Developing a Hypersonic Missile Designed to Strike Distant US Targets”, Associated Press News, https://apnews.com/article/north-korea-missile-solidfuel-hypersonic-af9f8c69e4ff004cd04592d2c80cda47, (Access Date: 23.03.2024).
[4] “North Korea Claims Progress in Developing a Hypersonic Missile Designed to Strike Distant U.S. Targets”, NBC News, a.g.e., (Access Date: 23.03.2024).
[5] “North Korea Claims Progress in Development of Hypersonic Missile”, Al Jazeera, a.g.e., (Access Date: 23.03.2024).
