The South Korean military reported that North Korea launched several cruise missiles off its west coast on Friday, marking the fourth such event in just over a week, according to Reuters. These missiles were described by North Korea as “strategic cruise missiles,” suggesting they might have nuclear capabilities. Earlier this week, state media highlighted that North Korea tested new submarine-launched cruise missiles under the supervision of Kim Jong Un, indicating a focus on enhancing the country’s military capabilities.
Kim Jong Un’s recent inspection of a shipyard in Nampo and emphasis on the importance of a strong naval force for “war preparations” were reported by official media. The Korean Central News Agency noted that Kim reviewed the construction of various warships as part of a “massive plan” devised by the country’s leadership. The agency also mentioned that Kim inspected the construction of a nuclear submarine and discussed the manufacture of new types of warships, without providing further details.
In recent months, North Korea has tested a range of weapons, including ballistic missile systems under development and an underwater drone. North Korea accuses the United States and South Korea of escalating tensions through extensive military exercises, leaving it with no choice but to “intensify preparations for a nuclear war.” The United States Special Operations Command also stated that it completed training with South Korean special forces.
The missile tests come amid heightened tensions in the region, particularly due to ongoing US-Republic of Korea joint military drills, which North Korea views as rehearsals for invasion. These drills, known as Freedom Shield exercises, are extensive and include about 20 field exercises, such as amphibious landings. North Korea’s response, including the submarine-launched cruise missile tests, appears to be a demonstration of its war deterrence capabilities and a warning against the resumption of large-scale military exercises by the US and South Korea.
As the US-ROK joint exercises continue, North Korea is likely to engage in further weapons testing and war simulation drills to showcase its military prowess and war deterrence capabilities. The possibility of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) test launched at a normal angle towards the Pacific remains, raising concerns about heightened tensions and the risk of miscalculation and military accidents in the region.
