North Korea tests a new ‘hypersonic missile': What you need to know

Picture Courtesy: Reuters

North Korea claimed on Tuesday that it has successfully tested a new ‘hypersonic missile’. The name of the missile is Hwasong-8. The North Korean state media said that this missile was one of the "five most important" new weapons systems laid out in its five-year military development plan.

This launch is another indication that North Korea is proceeding with its weapons development and testing plans amid the sanctions that the international community has put on it.

This is the third test in one month conducted by North Korea. They had earlier tested a cruise missile. See: https://www.bsocialplus.com/post/north-korea-tests-a-new-long-range-missile-what-you-need-to-know

The technology used in this missile allows it to be pre-fuelled and then sent to the field in canisters. That means that it can be in the launch-ready state for years.

The North Korean state media outlet KCNA said, "The development of this weapons system increased the nation's capabilities for self-defense in every way.”

This test comes after the North Korean envoy Kim Song defended the country’s right to develop weapons at the annual UN General Assembly in New York. He said that his country is "building up our national defense in order to defend ourselves and reliably safeguard the security and peace of the country".