According to KCNA, on October 3, North Korea conducted a medium-range strategic missile launch exercise, with Kim Jong-un observing in person. The missile was fired toward the northeast direction and struck a target located 1,000 kilometers into the Sea of Japan.

Kim Jong-un stated that the drill validated the combat readiness of the missile forces. He emphasized that the training aimed to ensure missile operators of high-speed strategic systems were proficient in fire control, and underscored the need to maintain strong deterrence capabilities to manage various threats and secure a stable environment for national development. Kim Yo-jong, a member of the Workers' Party of Korea Central Committee, also affirmed that the “unique flight characteristics” of North Korea’s various missile systems had been proven effective in real-world conditions.

The details of this launch closely resemble those of a high-speed missile test conducted by North Korea on January 4 of this year—when a missile was launched from Pyongyang’s Ryugyong district toward the northeast, striking a target more than 1,000 kilometers out in the eastern sea. While the official report issued by KCNA on October 3 did not specify exact range or flight direction, it confirmed impact within the eastern maritime area. Both launches likely employed similar or identical hypersonic weapon systems.

This marks at least the 14th missile launch activity by North Korea since 2026, representing a significantly higher frequency compared to previous years.

The intensified testing this year is linked to multiple factors:

1. Response to U.S.-South Korea military exercises: Multiple joint drills between Seoul and Washington throughout the year have been viewed by Pyongyang as rehearsals for invasion;

2. Reaction to Japan’s military expansion: Japan’s 2026 Defense White Paper substantially increased defense spending and deployed "Tomahawk" cruise missiles, prompting North Korea to demonstrate long-range strike capability;

3. Advancement of the five-year national defense plan: North Korea continues to pursue automation, long-range reach, and ultra-precision in its weapons systems;

4. Feedback from the Ukraine battlefield: Short-range ballistic missiles produced by North Korea have reportedly been used by Russia in Ukraine, with potential operational data feeding back into domestic weapon improvements.

Overall, North Korea is systematically demonstrating the comprehensive enhancement of both strategic and tactical strike capabilities through frequent, multi-type missile tests, while simultaneously delivering clear deterrent signals to the United States, South Korea, and Japan.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1878089586311180/

Disclaimer: This article reflects the personal views of the author.