North Korea’s missile test sets new flight time record
Longest missile flight raises fears of North Korea-Russia collaboration
North Korea’s intercontinental ballistic missile test on Thursday marked its longest flight time, sparking international concern. The missile launched from near Pyongyang and landed about 300 km west of Japan’s Hokkaido. South Korea and Japan noted this as the longest ICBM flight recorded, lasting 87 minutes, surpassing the December 2023 test which lasted 73 minutes. The missile achieved an altitude of 7,000 km and covered a distance of 1,000 km. Analysts suspect the use of a newly developed solid-fuel booster.
The launch occurred amid accusations that North Korea has sent troops to Russia to support its conflict with Ukraine. Both Moscow and Pyongyang have not confirmed this deployment, but South Korea claims 11,000 North Korean troops are in Russia, with 3,000 near Ukraine’s western frontlines.
The missile test coincided with South Korea’s warning that Pyongyang might seek missile technology from Russia in return for military support in Ukraine. This military collaboration between North Korea and Russia has worried many, including the United States and South Korea. U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and South Korea’s Kim Yong-hyun criticised the troop deployment in a meeting held before the missile test. Austin warned that North Korea’s involvement could extend the Ukraine conflict and involve more countries.
🇰🇵 North Korea launched an intercontinental ballistic missile at 01.10 Moscow time on October 31. The altitude at apogee was 4350 miles (a new record), the flight time was 86 minutes, the firing range was about 620 miles. The head part fell west of Okushiri Island, in the Sea of… pic.twitter.com/8TK5aVdoQw
— Military Conflicts (@Spasiilona) October 31, 2024
South Korea fears that North Korea’s engagement in the war may enhance its military capabilities through combat experience and potential technology transfers from Russia. These could include advancements in tactical nuclear weapons, ICBMs, ballistic missile submarines, and reconnaissance satellites. Shin Seung-ki, a North Korea military expert at the Korea Institute for Defense Analyses, suggested that the improved booster performance might be due to Russian assistance.
Pyongyang’s actions appear to be a demonstration of defiance against international pressure, as well as an attempt to influence the U.S. presidential election, according to Shin.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Al Jazeera reports North Korea launches a suspected ICBM towards the East Sea, South Korea says, amid rising concerns over North Korea’s alleged troop deployments to Russia for Ukraine.(read more)
- SCMP reports North Korea’s latest military move, firing a long-range ballistic missile, amid rising tensions, with South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff confirming the high-angle launch.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why did North Korea’s recent missile test cause concern?
It marked the longest ICBM flight, raising fears of advanced capabilities and potential tech exchanges with Russia.
Did North Korea send troops to Russia?
South Korea claims 11,000 North Korean troops are in Russia, though this is unconfirmed by Moscow and Pyongyang.
What might North Korea gain from its involvement in the Ukraine conflict?
North Korea could gain military experience and technology from Russia, enhancing its military capabilities.
How long did the latest North Korean missile fly?
The missile flew for 87 minutes, setting a record for North Korea’s ICBM flight duration.
Is there any link between North Korea’s missile test and the U.S. presidential election?
Experts suggest Pyongyang’s actions might aim to influence the U.S. presidential election.
