North Korea tests powerful missiles, potential Russia shipment

On September 18, North Korea tested new tactical ballistic missiles with large warheads and a modified cruise missile. According to the KCNA news agency, the tests were personally overseen by Kim Jong Un. It is possible that this weapon could also be sent to Russia.

"The tests to improve weapons capabilities are required because of the grave threat posed by outside forces to the security of the country," said the leader of the North Korean regime, as quoted by KCNA.

According to the statement, on September 18, tests of the new Hwasongpho-11-Da-4.5 tactical ballistic missiles were conducted. These missiles belong to the short-range ballistic missile category, which Pyongyang is developing as part of its program. During the tests, they were to cover approximately 200 miles. It was also mentioned that a certain number of these missiles could be delivered to Russia.

The Hwasongpho-11-Da-4.5 stands out primarily due to its warhead (conventional), with which it is equipped. It weighs as much as 5 tons, which likely translates to the high destructive power of this ballistic missile. Furthermore, the North Korean military "also conducted a test-fire of strategic cruise missile whose performance has been highly upgraded for its combat use." Still, KCNA did not provide more detailed information on this topic.

KCNA reported that Kim Jong Un emphasized the importance of further strengthening nuclear forces, possessing the most advanced technologies, and having "overwhelming offensive capability" in conventional weaponry.

The Reuters agency noted that the Hwasongpho-11-Da-4.5 is still in the testing phase, and much information about it remains shrouded in secrecy, but they may indeed be sent to Russia. Putin's army may be interested in them "if its performance and reliability can be guaranteed through further testing."

Approval to transfer more weapons to Russia will not be an issue for the North Korean regime. Since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, Kim Jong Un's regime has significantly tightened cooperation with Russia, becoming its biggest ally. For months, shipments of 122 mm and 152 mm artillery ammunition, as well as KN-23 (Hwasong-11Ga) ballistic missiles with warheads weighing up to 1,100 lbs, have been sent.