North Korea tests strategic cruise missiles under Kim's watch
North Korea has conducted a test of strategic cruise missiles, as confirmed by state media. Kim Jong Un oversaw the trial, emphasizing the need for readiness to use nuclear weapons.
The North Korean army conducted a test of strategic cruise missiles, which was announced by state media on Friday. Kim Jong Un, the leader of North Korea, personally supervised these actions, emphasizing the necessity of maintaining full readiness to use nuclear weapons.
The tests took place on Wednesday morning in the waters off the country's western coast. According to the official KCNA news agency, the missiles flew for about 133 minutes, covering a distance of 1,587 kilometres, before accurately hitting designated targets. The South Korean Yonhap agency highlighted that the missiles' designation as "strategic" suggests their capability to carry nuclear warheads.
The test aimed to warn "enemies who seriously violate the country's security environment" and demonstrate readiness to use various nuclear operations. Kim Jong Un called for constant defense of the state's sovereignty and security with a "reliable nuclear shield." The striking capability is intended to serve as "the most perfect means of deterrence and defence."
Fourth test in 2025
The South Korean military confirmed the detection of the launch of several cruise missiles towards the Yellow Sea. Together with US intelligence agencies, they are analyzing the flight data. The development and testing of cruise missiles are not subject to UN Security Council sanctions, which differentiates them from ballistic and nuclear weapons.
This was Pyongyang's fourth missile test in 2025 and the second since Donald Trump returned to the White House. The tests took place shortly before the planned Freedom Shield exercises in March involving South Korea and the USA, which Pyongyang regularly condemns, often responding with missile tests.
Read also:
