Kim Jong Un supervised the test-firing of North Korea’s newest surface-to-air missile system, indicating potential Russian support. The test, deemed “highly reliable,” coincided with U.S.-South Korean military drills, which North Korea condemned. Experts stress the complexity of producing effective missile systems independently, while tensions continue to escalate in the region.
On Thursday, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw a test-firing of the nation’s latest surface-to-air missile system, as reported by state media KCNA. Experts suggest that North Korea may have received technical assistance from Russia to enhance these systems. The test demonstrated a “highly reliable” performance, with favorable combat response, according to KCNA’s report on Friday.
The Missile Administration conducted the test to evaluate the performance of a system that has begun production. Although the specific location of the test was not disclosed, Kim was accompanied by members of the Central Military Commission of the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea. Photographs from KCNA showed a missile plume in the sky and a mid-air explosion, with Kim smiling as he observed the test.
Experts indicate that North Korea might be obtaining support from Russia for its anti-aircraft missile capabilities, especially in light of increasing security collaboration between the two nations. “In the past, North Korea has introduced Soviet weapon systems and developed weapons based on them,” noted Shin Seung-ki, head of research on North Korea’s military at the Korea Institute for Defense Analyses.
Shin acknowledged the complexity of producing interceptor missiles without external assistance. The development involves integration of not only missiles, but also detection and tracking radar systems, as well as command and control frameworks. Furthermore, South Korea’s military was informed in advance of the planned missile launch, which occurred around 9 a.m. on Thursday.
North Korea’s test coincided with the conclusion of annual joint military drills between South Korea and the United States, known as Freedom Shield. Pyongyang has criticized these exercises as provocative and has demanded their cessation, labeling them as preparations for an invasion. The North’s defense ministry condemned the joint drills as “reckless” and declared that all options to counter U.S. and South Korean actions, including the use of “most destructive and deadly military means,” were being evaluated.
In summary, Kim Jong Un’s oversight of the surface-to-air missile test underscores North Korea’s ongoing military advancements, potentially bolstered by Russian support. The test’s promising results and accompanying comments from defense officials illustrate the regime’s determination amid ongoing tensions with South Korea and the United States. Additionally, the criticism of joint military exercises by the U.S. and South Korea highlights the fragile security landscape in the region.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
