North Korea Demonstrates Hwasong-20 ICBM in Anniversary Parade

North Korea has unveiled its latest intercontinental ballistic missile, the Hwasong-20, during a military parade marking the 80th anniversary of its ruling Workers’ Party. The event, hosted by leader Kim Jong-un, served as a platform to display the country’s advanced military technologies, including hypersonic missiles and electronic warfare-equipped tanks. The Hwasong-20, described by state media as ‘the most powerful nuclear strategic weapon system,’ was showcased on an 11-axle transporter-launch vehicle, highlighting its potential to reach as far as the United States. The missile’s introduction follows recent tests of a solid-fueled rocket engine, which North Korea claims offers greater speed and power compared to liquid-fueled systems, making it harder to intercept. The parade also featured military drones and advanced weaponry, signaling North Korea’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its military deterrence capabilities. Experts suggest that the Hwasong-20 could be equipped with multiple nuclear warheads, a development that aligns with North Korea’s strategic goals of enhancing its nuclear arsenal. Pyongyang maintains that its arms programs are a defensive measure against perceived Western threats, particularly the United States. The country’s military leaders have consistently emphasized that the development of these weapons is essential for protecting national sovereignty and deterring foreign aggression. This demonstration of military power underscores the ongoing tensions in the region and the complex dynamics of international relations involving North Korea, South Korea, and the United States.