North Korea has deployed 250 new tactical ballistic missile launchers to its border with South Korea, marking a significant escalation in regional tensions.
Continued U.S. Attempts to Undermine Regional Security
The announcement was made during a grand ceremony in Pyongyang, where Kim Jong Un oversaw the transfer of the equipment and delivered a defiant speech, according to Digi24.
Kim Jong Un emphasized that the new launchers, built with North Korean technology, represent the first phase of a strengthened missile force for border units. He stated, "Dialogue or confrontation can be our choice, but we must be better prepared for confrontation."
Kim also warned that continued U.S. attempts to undermine regional security would have serious consequences.
The Korean Peninsula remains one of the most militarized regions globally, with North Korea claiming to possess extensive artillery aimed at the south. The recent display of military might comes amid heightened tensions, as North Korea formed a new "strategic partnership" with Russia in June.
Unclear if Any Were Armed
While images from the event show numerous launch vehicles and trucks, it is unclear if any were armed with operational missiles. Defense researcher Joseph Dempsey noted it is unlikely and impractical for the missiles to be loaded during such a public display.
The launchers are associated with the Hwasong-11D, a short-range missile claimed to be capable of carrying a tactical nuclear warhead. However, North Korea's capacity to produce sufficient warheads for the 250 launchers remains uncertain.
The new deployment follows Pyongyang's warning last year of increasing military equipment along the demarcation line, after South Korea partially withdrew from a 2018 agreement meant to ease border tensions. In response, the U.S., South Korea, and Japan have ramped up military cooperation, leading to several incidents where South Korea fired warning shots at North Korean personnel crossing the line.
