North Korea has conducted a test of a “super-large warhead” designed for a strategic cruise missile, according to state media reports on Saturday. The latest test follows a significant disruption in UN sanctions monitoring against the nuclear-armed nation after Russia’s recent use of its United Nations Security Council veto.
In the test, North Korea launched a missile it calls the “Hwasal-1 Ra-3 strategic cruise missile,” as shown in a photo released by North Korean state media. This launch comes after Russia used its UN Security Council veto in March to end monitoring of violations of sanctions imposed on North Korea for its nuclear and weapons programs.
Experts have suggested that North Korea’s cruise missile tests might precede the delivery of such weapons to Russia for use in Ukraine. Despite UN sanctions prohibiting these transactions, there have been reports that Kim Jong Un’s regime has shipped arms to Moscow, as claimed by Washington and Seoul.
North Korea also tested a new anti-aircraft missile known as “‘Pyoljji-1-2’,” according to state media, with the test occurring on Friday afternoon over the West Sea of Korea. Seoul’s military confirmed the detection of multiple cruise and surface-to-air missiles launched toward the Yellow Sea, with South Korea’s military monitoring North Korea’s activities closely.
The announcement noted that these tests were part of North Korea’s regular missile administration activities and had no connection to ongoing geopolitical tensions. However, Pyongyang has heightened its hostile rhetoric toward South Korea, declaring it a “principal enemy” and threatening retaliation over perceived territorial encroachments.
While UN sanctions prohibit North Korea’s testing of ballistic missiles, cruise missiles are not explicitly banned. These missiles tend to fly at lower altitudes, making them harder to detect and intercept, which has raised concerns about their potential use and export.
Despite ongoing international warnings, North Korea continues to enhance its missile and nuclear capabilities. In 2022, Pyongyang declared itself an “irreversible” nuclear weapons state, further complicating regional stability. The test of a super-large warhead underscores the country’s commitment to advancing its military technology despite international sanctions and pressure.
