North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has overseen the ninth and final test of a solid-fuel engine used for long-range nuclear missiles, according to state media. This development marks a significant step in the country’s weapons program, which Western powers have been unable to halt. The test, described as a “ground jet test of high-thrust solid-fuel engine using the composite carbon fiber material,” indicates that a full test-fire of a new intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) could be conducted in the coming months.
Kim was quoted by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) as saying that the new rocket engine “heralds a significant change in expanding and strengthening the nuclear strategic forces” of North Korea. The engine test comes a week after the North unveiled its new Hwasong-20, billed as its next-generation ICBM. Analysts believe that the test suggests the production of a solid-fuel engine to be used for the new ICBM, with a probable test launch expected soon.
North Korea’s relationship with Russia has become increasingly significant, with the country becoming one of Russia’s main allies since the invasion of Ukraine. Analysts speculate that the North may be receiving Russian technical support for its banned weapons and satellite programs in exchange for its assistance. This support could allow for more rapid progress on North Korea’s missile development projects, potentially enabling its missiles to be reassessed from “crude” to “complete.”
The test also follows Kim’s trip to Beijing, where he attended a military parade marking Japan’s surrender in World War II alongside Chinese and Russian leaders Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin. North Korea has for years staged test flights of long-range missiles apparently capable of reaching the continental United States. The use of solid-fuel variants and carbon-fiber material in its ICBMs could enable the weapons to gain greater range by becoming lighter.
North Korea has repeatedly stated its intention to maintain its nuclear weapons, calling South Korean President Lee Jae Myung a “hypocrite” over his remarks calling for a “path to denuclearisation.” The country’s stance on its nuclear program remains unchanged, with Pyongyang stating that it will not abandon its nuclear weapons. The latest development in North Korea’s weapons program is expected to have significant implications for regional and global security, with the potential for further escalation in the coming months.
