The Hwasong-20 intercontinental ballistic missile, which is potentially capable of reaching the continental US, debuted at a military parade in Pyongyang
North Korea unveiled its latest intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) during a military parade on Friday.
Presided over by leader Kim Jong-un, the event, marking the 80th anniversary of the founding of the country’s ruling Workers’ Party, showcased North Korea’s newest weapons systems, including military drones, tanks with advanced electronic warfare gear, and hypersonic missiles.
However, the centerpiece of the event was the debut of the Hwasong-20, described by state media as North Korea’s “most powerful nuclear strategic weapon system” to date and potentially capable of reaching as far as the continental US. During the ceremony, the massive missile was mounted on an 11-axle transporter-launch vehicle.
The existence of the Hwasong-20 was revealed only last month when North Korea tested a new solid-fuel rocket engine it said was intended for its next generation of ICBMs. Solid-fueled rockets can be transported and launched more quickly than their liquid-fueled counterparts, making them harder to intercept. State media said the carbon-fiber-built engine is more powerful than any previous North Korean design.
Little is known about the Hwasong-20’s specifications, and Pyongyang has not yet announced a test launch. Experts believe it may be capable of carrying multiple nuclear warheads – a goal Kim has repeatedly urged the military to pursue.
North Korea calls its pursuit of advanced arms a response to ongoing Western military threats, particularly from the US. Pyongyang views Washington’s presence in South Korea and the joint drills the two countries hold as aggressive in nature. It believes its nuclear and missile programs are essential deterrents against foreign interference, insisting the arsenal is purely defensive and meant to protect national sovereignty.
