Editorial
Yesterday North Korea, through the state agency KNCA, announced that it had successfully tested a new strategic cruise missile called “Pulhwasal-3-31”. The test confirms the rumors disclosed by the South Korean armed forces the other day. The missile, still under development, was launched with the aim of evaluating its performance. However, the authorities reassured that the test launch would not have had any impact on the security of neighboring countries.
The strategic missile test would be part of the plan to upgrade the country's weapons systems, as reported by the North Korean administration. The statement released by Defense underlines the intention to strengthen North Korea's defensive capabilities. Despite reassurances about the non-threatening nature of the exercise, the launch has sparked global concern.
The South Korean military interprets the test as an attempt to evaluate and enhance the capabilities of missiles already in use. The launch, which occurred at 7am, involved several cruise missiles heading out to sea off the west coast.
The adjective “strategic” usually refers to weapons capable of carrying nuclear warheads. It is crucial to note that North Korea previously tested a cruise missile with potential nuclear strike capabilities in September 2021. Yesterday's event could indicate further developments in this area.
At the same time, the South Korea announced Thursday the start of the mass production of drones medium-altitude reconnaissance aircraft, planning to deploy them by 2027. This initiative is aimed at enhancing surveillance capabilities and contributing to defense exports.
Although North Korean cruise missiles are not expressly prohibited by the resolutions of United Nations Security Council, analysts highlight that, especially if medium-range and capable of land attacks, they constitute a serious threat and can destabilize the entire region. The difficulty in distinguishing between conventional and nuclear warheads on ballistic and cruise missiles makes these arsenals particularly deterrents in situations of armed conflict.
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