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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n