North Korea Tests Long-Range Cruise Missiles in Latest Nuclear Deterrence Display

North Korea has conducted test launches of long-range strategic cruise missiles over the Yellow Sea, with state media presenting the exercise as a demonstration of the country’s nuclear strike capabilities.

According to KCNA, leader Kim Jong Un personally oversaw the operation on December 29, describing it as a routine measure to assess the reliability and responsiveness of North Korea’s nuclear deterrent.

The launch involved several cruise missiles that flew predetermined trajectories over the sea for nearly three hours—10,199 and 10,203 seconds respectively—before striking their designated targets.

The test was carried out by long-range missile units, and, as reported by KCNA, aimed to verify combat readiness, operational control, and strike precision.

“Regular checks on the reliability and rapid reaction capability of the DPRK’s nuclear deterrent components are a responsible measure of self-defense,” Kim Jong Un said, according to KCNA. The outlet also reported that the launches provided a “clear demonstration” of North Korea’s strategic counterattack posture.

South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff confirmed the launches on Monday, stating that multiple cruise missiles were detected originating from the Sunan area near Pyongyang at around 8 a.m. local time. In response, a spokesperson from South Korea’s Ministry of Defense described the activity as “undermining peace and stability” on the Korean Peninsula.

Read more

Category

War in Ukraine

How Russia Is Supercharging North Korea’s War Machine

Apr 17, 2025 11:44

As reported by Bloomberg, the missiles were classified as long-range strategic cruise missiles, capable of sustained flight over extended periods. Their successful completion of near-synchronous trajectories and target strikes appears intended to validate both guidance systems and nuclear delivery readiness.

This marks the second weapons test observed by Kim Jong Un within the same week. Earlier, he attended the launch of new long-range surface-to-air missiles over the East Sea. KCNA noted that both events are part of a broader campaign to showcase North Korea’s military and economic achievements ahead of a key Workers’ Party meeting scheduled for early 2026.

Earlier in December, Kim Jong Un visited key munitions enterprises and approved modernization plans for North Korea’s missile and artillery production, according to Reuters. State media reported that these initiatives will be presented at the upcoming Workers’ Party congress to shape the country’s next five-year defense strategy.

On the Frontline of Truth

Our reporters risk their lives to show what’s really happening in Ukraine. Your support keeps them safe, equipped, and reporting.

SUPPORT FRONTLINE REPORTS