North Korea made a show of strength with the test launch of its new solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile named Hwasong-19.

State media in North Korea released on Friday, November 1, 2024, photos and videos of the test launch of the Hwasong-19, which took place under the supervision of Kim Jong Un.

The missile flew higher than any previous North Korean missile, according to North Korea, while South Korea confirmed the claims as they closely watched Thursday’s launch.

The Hwasong-19, like North Korea’s other ICBMs, can hit almost anywhere in the United States.

The Hwasong-19 will be developed alongside the Hwasong-18, which was first launched last year and is also powered by solid fuel, KCNA said. Solid-fuel missiles are often easier and safer to operate and require less logistical support than liquid-fuel weapons.

The increased length likely means more fuel capacity, which directly affects thrust and potentially increases range, he added. He pointed out that the Hwasong-19’s expanded capacity and larger payload section are likely to enable it to carry heavier and potentially multiple nuclear warheads.

North Korea may continue testing to see if, during the final re-entry phase, the warheads can be separated and each directed to individual targets, Kim added.

The Hwasong-19 flew 1,001.2 km for 85 minutes and 56 seconds before landing in the sea off the east coast of the Korean peninsula, at a maximum altitude of 7,687.5 km, KCNA reported.

Source: Reuters

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