North Korea has launched a “new type of ballistic missile,” North Korea’s state news agency KCNA reported. The missile was launched from a submarine and landed in the sea. KCNA speaks of “a successful test”.
The launch, according to neighboring South Korea, took place at the port of Sinpo, in eastern North Korea, where the submarines are stationed. South Korean media report that the missile traveled a distance of about 450 kilometers and reached an altitude of about 60 kilometers before crashing into the Sea of Japan.
North Korea has been working on ballistic missiles that can be fired underwater for some time. The country also conducted tests with such weapons in 2016 and 2019. The successful launch from a submarine means that North Korea is able to bombard targets in more places around the world.
Greater threat
North Korea has conducted a series of missile tests in recent weeks, including long-range and hypersonic weapons it claims. In doing so, the country violates the United Nations ban on the testing of ballistic missiles and nuclear weapons.
The UN considers ballistic missiles a greater threat than cruise missiles because they can carry a more powerful payload, have longer range and can fly faster than cruise missiles.
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