Kim Jong Un oversaw the test-firing of North Korea’s new surface-to-air missile system. Experts believe technical assistance from Russia may be involved. The exercise coincides with U.S.-South Korea military drills, which North Korea opposes, claiming they are rehearsals for war. The situation raises regional security concerns as tensions escalate.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervised the testing of a new surface-to-air missile system on Thursday, as reported by state media KCNA. Experts suggest that North Korea may be receiving technical assistance from Russia to enhance these missile capabilities. Kim expressed gratitude to the research group involved in developing the system, which he claimed exhibited high reliability and advantageous combat response during the test.
The test, conducted by North Korea’s Missile Administration, aimed to assess the performance of a missile system that is already in production. KCNA did not disclose the testing location but noted that Kim was accompanied by members of the Central Military Commission during the event. Visual evidence from KCNA included images of a missile launching and an explosion in the air, alongside Kim appearing to observe and smile at the test.
Analysts believe North Korea’s collaboration with Russia is likely enhancing its anti-aircraft missile capabilities, given the strengthening ties between the two countries. Shin Seung-ki from the Korea Institute for Defense Analyses commented on historic cooperation, stating, “It’s highly likely that Russia has given correspondingly what North Korea demands.”
Meanwhile, as North Korea continues to develop its ballistic missiles independently, producing interceptor missiles remains a complex task that often requires external support due to the need for additional components like radar and command systems. The South Korean military had anticipated the missile launch, which occurred around 9 a.m. on Thursday.
The timing coincided with the conclusion of U.S.-South Korea military exercises, known as Freedom Shield, which North Korea has condemned as provocations and a potential precursor to invasion. A spokesperson for North Korea’s defense ministry criticized these drills as “reckless” and termed them a war rehearsal, adding that all options, including the use of destructive military means, were on the table if aggressive actions from the U.S. and South Korea continued.
The recent test of North Korea’s surface-to-air missile system demonstrates the country’s advancing military capabilities, possibly aided by Russian technology. Kim Jong Un’s oversight emphasizes national pride in weapon development amidst escalating tensions with the U.S. and South Korea. As military exercises between the latter nations continue, North Korea’s threat rhetoric intensifies, highlighting regional security challenges that remain unresolved.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
