North Korea says latest missile tests involve hypersonic weapons system

North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un observed test-flights of hypersonic missiles on Sunday, emphasizing the need to strengthen the country’s nuclear war deterrent capabilities amid escalating weapons demonstrations preceding a major political conference.

The tests occurred just hours before South Korean President Lee Jae Myung departed for China to meet with President Xi Jinping, according to North Korea’s official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

“Through today’s launching drill, we can confirm that a very important technology task for national defense has been carried out,” Kim was quoted as saying. “We must continuously upgrade the military means, especially offensive weapon systems.”

KCNA reported that Sunday’s exercise involving a hypersonic weapon system aimed to examine readiness, enhance missile troops’ operational skills, and evaluate the country’s war deterrent capabilities. North Korea’s neighbors had detected multiple ballistic missile launches the previous day and condemned the actions as provocative.

Military analysts note that functional hypersonic weapons would give North Korea significant advantages in penetrating U.S. and South Korean missile defense systems. These missiles travel at more than five times the speed of sound and can maneuver during flight, making them difficult to track and intercept. However, many international experts remain skeptical about whether North Korea’s tested missiles have actually achieved the desired speed and maneuverability during their flights.

The latest tests are part of a series of recent weapons demonstrations by North Korea, which has also test-fired what it described as long-range strategic cruise missiles and new anti-air missiles in recent weeks. The country has also released photographs suggesting progress in constructing its first nuclear-powered submarine, a significant advancement in its naval capabilities.

These accelerated weapons displays come ahead of North Korea’s Workers’ Party congress, the first such gathering in five years. Observers believe North Korea is aiming to showcase its weapons development achievements before the congress, where Kim might potentially outline a new approach to relations with the United States and consider resuming long-dormant diplomatic talks.

North Korea’s nuclear program was expected to be a key topic when President Lee and Chinese President Xi met for their summit on Monday. Lee’s office had previously stated he would call on China, North Korea’s primary ally and economic partner, to take “a constructive role” in promoting peace on the Korean Peninsula.

The missile tests also followed Saturday’s U.S. military operation in Venezuela that removed leader Nicolás Maduro from power and brought him to the United States to face narco-terrorism conspiracy charges. North Korea denounced this action, saying it demonstrated “the rogue and brutal nature of the U.S.”

Many experts suggest the U.S. operation in Venezuela will likely prompt Kim to further expand North Korea’s nuclear capabilities, which he considers essential for guaranteeing his government’s survival and state sovereignty against what he perceives as U.S.-led hostilities.

During Sunday’s launch drill, Kim defended his pursuit of a stronger nuclear program, stating, “Why it is necessary is exemplified by the recent geopolitical crisis and complicated international events.”

The international community continues to monitor North Korea’s weapons development with concern, as these advancements potentially destabilize regional security and complicate diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions on the Korean Peninsula. The United Nations Security Council has previously imposed multiple sanctions on North Korea for its nuclear and missile programs, though enforcement has been inconsistent.