North Korea's Missile Administration has claimed that its latest strategic cruise missile warheads can devastate targets across an area of up to six hectares, following weapons tests on November 2.
The state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that the tests were carried out to assess the power of the warhead and to improve the missile's ability to strike targets vertically. The country's Warhead Institute said the weapon had demonstrated its ability to destroy a targeted area using what it described as its "highest-density" power.
Separate Test for Manoeuvrability
Another test focused on improving the cruise missile's manoeuvrability, enabling it to make more precise strikes depending on the terrain and geographical features of its target. The tests were overseen by Kim Jong-sik, a member of the ruling Workers' Party's Central Military Commission and a senior official within its Central Committee.
North Korea's Missile Administration said developing different weapons had become increasingly "urgent" to protect the country against external threats.
Official Statements on Weapon Development
The general director of the Missile Administration said: "The necessity of developing a variety of weapon systems is more urgent than ever before. It is because our armed forces should defend the security of the country and deter all sorts of threats."
He added: "As today's tests showed, various combat functions of such strong weapon systems will help defend the DPRK from potential threats from outside and renew the military capabilities of the state."
The Missile Administration described the tests as part of routine scientific research aimed at improving the power of its weapons systems.
