**Pyongyang’s missile revolution: The most dangerous program you’re not paying attention to**
North Korea has significantly advanced its missile capabilities, including solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and hypersonic glide vehicles, which can reach any point in the continental United States. The country has developed systems like the Hwasong-20 and Hwasong-18, showcasing its growing arsenal and strategic deterrence capabilities. Additionally, North Korea has launched a ballistic missile submarine capable of carrying intermediate-range missiles, joining a select group of nations with such capabilities. The article highlights the country’s commitment to nuclear deterrence, despite economic challenges and international sanctions.
## Key Points:
### Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs) and Hypersonic Glide Vehicles
– **Hwasong-20** and **Hwasong-18** ICBMs: These missiles are equipped with hypersonic glide vehicles, making them extremely difficult to intercept. They can strike targets anywhere in the continental United States and are capable of carrying nuclear payloads.
– **Hwasong-16B**: This solid-fuel missile carries a hypersonic glide warhead, capable of reaching up to 5,000 kilometers. It poses a significant threat to the U.S. Navy, as it can strike aircraft carriers far from North Korea’s coastline.
– **Hwasong-11Ma**: A new system carrying two maneuverable hypersonic glide vehicles, with a range of at least 1,000 kilometers. It is expected to be tested soon and deployed after testing.
### Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missiles (SLBM)
– **Hero Kim Gun-ok**: North Korea’s first domestically built ballistic missile submarine, equipped with four launchers for ballistic missiles and six for sea-based cruise missiles.
– **Pukguksong-5**: These missiles have a diameter of about 1.5 meters and an estimated range of at least 3,000 kilometers. They represent the most advanced sea-based missiles in North Korea’s arsenal.
### Short-Range Ballistic Missiles (SRBM)
– **KN-25** and **KN-23**: These systems have ranges of up to 600 kilometers and are capable of carrying nuclear warheads. The KN-25 is a multiple rocket launcher designed for nuclear use, while the KN-23 resembles the Russian Iskander-M system.
### Strategic Implications
– The development of these missiles underscores North Korea’s commitment to nuclear deterrence, despite economic challenges and international sanctions.
– The country’s missile capabilities allow it to destroy a potential aggressor without turning to other means of attack, making it a significant military threat.
## Conclusion
North Korea’s missile revolution represents a significant shift in its military capabilities, with the development of advanced ICBMs, hypersonic glide vehicles, and submarine-launched ballistic missiles. These advancements underscore the country’s determination to maintain a strong nuclear deterrent, despite the economic and political challenges it faces. This development has significant implications for regional and global security, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and strategic assessment.