Kim Jong Un supervises test of new missile launcher amid Ukraine concerns

Kim Jong Un, the leader of North Korea, personally supervised the tests of the new multiple-launch rocket system of approximately 240 mm (around 9.5 inches) calibre. As reported by the official KCNA press agency, this new technology is to be incorporated into the North Korean army's arsenal later this year.

On this occasion, Kim Jong Un made a statement that he emphasized his ambitions related to developing new weapons systems. Quoted by KCNA, the leader of North Korea said he wants "to take the production of this and other new weapons systems to a higher level to strengthen the army's combat capabilities."

The statement released by KCNA informs that eight missiles "hit the designated targets demonstrating the destructive potential." This suggests that the new missile launcher has significant offensive capabilities.

However, the Ministry of Defence of South Korea expressed its doubts about the authenticity of these tests. It was reported they were unable to confirm whether these tests took place.

Experts, cited by AFP, suspect that Pyongyang might be conducting tests of new missile and artillery systems with the idea of using them in the armed conflict in Ukraine. According to them, these new technologies may be sent to Russia, which is currently conducting military operations against Ukraine.

Recently, we reported that North Korea supports Russia in the conflict in Ukraine, supplying weapons, which it sees as an opportunity to test them in real combat conditions. Pacific Army Commander General Charles Flynn claims that for Pyongyang, it is a unique "laboratory." Ukraine warns that this cooperation has a significant impact on the conflict, citing examples of artillery and ballistic missiles supplied by North Korea that have significant destructive power.