North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw a test-firing of a new surface-to-air missile system, possibly developed with Russian assistance. The test aimed to evaluate the system’s reliability and combat effectiveness. This event occurred after a joint U.S.-South Korea military exercise, which North Korea criticized as provoking regional tensions.
On a Thursday, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervised the test-firing of a new anti-aircraft missile system, as reported by state media KCNA. Analysts suggest that North Korea might be receiving technical assistance from Russia to enhance these systems, reflecting the deepening security collaboration between the two nations. During the test, Kim commended a research group involved in the missile system’s development, emphasizing its high reliability and effective combat response.
The Missile Administration conducted the test to assess the performance of the system, which has already entered production. Though KCNA did not disclose the test’s location, it mentioned that Kim was accompanied by members of the Central Military Commission of the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea. Photographic evidence showed a missile launching, an explosion mid-air, and Kim observing the events with an apparent smile.
Experts like Shin Seung-ki, who leads military research at Korea Institute for Defense Analyses, expressed that North Korea likely benefits from Russian support for developing the anti-aircraft missile system. Historically, North Korea has adopted Soviet weaponry for its own use, and enhanced ties with Russia could facilitate such exchanges. Shin explained that while North Korea has developed its own ballistic missiles, creating interceptor missiles requires complex systems involving detection, tracking radar, and command and control capabilities.
South Korea’s military had prior knowledge of the missile launch, which occurred around 9 a.m. on Thursday. This coincided with the conclusion of extensive United States-South Korea joint military drills, named Freedom Shield. While these exercises are described by Seoul and Washington as defensive, Pyongyang has condemned them, labeling the activities as provocations suggestive of an impending invasion.
In a statement from North Korea’s defense ministry, the ongoing joint drills were criticized as “reckless” and characterized as war rehearsals. The ministry indicated that all measures to counter the United States and South Korea’s military presence are under consideration, including the potential use of extreme military capabilities, urging a cessation of their joint operations.
The recent test-firing of North Korea’s anti-aircraft missile system, overseen by Kim Jong Un, signals both the nation’s technological advancement and potential cooperation with Russia. As regional tensions escalate, particularly in the backdrop of U.S.-South Korea military drills, North Korea’s defense strategy clearly underscores its stance against perceived foreign threats. This development may have significant implications for regional security dynamics.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
