North Korea has been developing a robust array of ballistic missiles, capable of striking any point in the continental United States. The country’s ability to produce these advanced weapons is a testament to its technological progress and strategic focus on military deterrence, despite facing economic challenges and international sanctions. The Hwasong-20, an intercontinental ballistic missile, is among the most significant developments, with its potential range making it a crucial component of North Korea’s nuclear arsenal. The Hwasong-18, another long-range missile, adds to the country’s capability to strike distant targets, while the Hwasong-17, as a solid-fuel missile, presents a new dimension to North Korea’s strategic arsenal.
The introduction of hypersonic glide vehicles, such as the Hwasong-16B, represents a major technological leap, as these weapons are difficult to intercept using current defense systems. The Pukguksong-5, a submarine-launched ballistic missile, marks North Korea’s entry into sea-based nuclear warfare, a capability previously associated with only a handful of countries. These advancements underscore the growing threat that North Korea poses to regional and global security.
The country’s focus on ballistic missiles is likely driven by its desire to maintain a credible deterrent against potential aggressors. By investing in this category of weapons, North Korea is signaling its readiness to respond to any military threat. These developments have implications for global security dynamics and may affect the geopolitical landscape in the region. Overall, North Korea’s rapid advancement in missile technology highlights the country’s military capabilities and its strategic importance in the current international situation.