North Korea tests new Hypersonic Missile amid global arms race

Major global players, including China, Russia, and the United States, have been actively developing hypersonic weapons.

North Korea announced on Monday the successful test of a new solid-fuel hypersonic missile with intermediate range, marking a significant development in the intensifying global race for advanced long-range rockets. The United States, China, Russia, and other countries have also been actively pursuing hypersonic weapons, which are challenging to detect and intercept.

Hypersonic missiles, known for their exceptional speed and manoeuvrability, typically travel at more than five times the speed of sound. North Korea’s latest test aimed to assess the reliability of new multi-stage, high-thrust solid-fuel engines and an intermediate-range hypersonic manoeuvrable controlled warhead.

The key feature of hypersonic weapons is their manoeuvrability, allowing them to navigate at relatively low altitudes, making interception difficult. North Korea’s recent test involved a combination of a glide vehicle and a missile capable of launching it partially into orbit, known as a fractional orbital bombardment system (FOBS). This technology could reduce reaction time and challenge traditional defence mechanisms.

Major global players, including China, Russia, and the United States, have been actively developing hypersonic weapons. China demonstrated a hypersonic glide vehicle in 2021, while Russia successfully tested a Tsirkon hypersonic cruise missile. The United States announced a successful test of an air-breathing hypersonic weapon in September 2021.

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North Korea, under leader Kim Jong Un’s directive, has prioritized the development of hypersonic weapons as part of a broader military power enhancement plan. The latest test marks a notable advancement, utilizing solid fuel for quicker launches with minimal preparation.

The global pursuit of hypersonic capabilities reflects an ongoing arms race, with concerns arising about the potential evasion of missile shields and early warning systems. North Korea’s progress in hypersonic technology raises strategic concerns, especially regarding its ability to target locations like Guam while evading U.S. missile defense systems.

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The announcement underscores the geopolitical implications of technological advancements in missile capabilities and the challenges they pose to regional and global security.