North Korea has conducted a missile launch off its eastern coast, as confirmed by South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff and Japan’s military. The missile launch follows a series of strongly worded grievances expressed by North Korea, specifically targeting US military operations. Accusations of airspace violations by American spy planes in its economic zones and condemnation of the presence of a US nuclear-powered cruise missile submarine in South Korea have intensified the already strained relations.
Recent developments have raised concerns over North Korea’s missile capabilities. This year, the country successfully test-fired its first solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), marking a significant advancement. Additionally, North Korea made an unsuccessful attempt to launch its inaugural spy satellite using a new launch vehicle. It is important to note that these activities violate explicit prohibitions imposed by the United Nations Security Council resolutions, which restrict North Korea from utilizing ballistic missile technology, including for satellite launches. As a consequence, North Korea has faced sanctions from the Security Council and various nations due to its missile and nuclear weapons programs.
Analysts have observed preparations indicating that North Korea is planning to showcase its military might, including a significant parade, during an upcoming holiday on July 27. This holiday commemorates North Korea’s assertion of victory in the Korean War (1950-1953) against the United States, South Korea, and their allied forces. The relationship between the two Koreas currently experiences a period of extreme tension, with diplomatic efforts stalled after unsuccessful attempts in recent years to engage in discussions regarding Pyongyang’s denuclearization.
The launch of ballistic missiles signifies the use of rocket-propelled self-guided strategic weapons following a ballistic trajectory towards a predetermined target. Such missiles can carry conventional high explosives as well as chemical, biological, or nuclear munitions. To address concerns about ballistic missile proliferation, initiatives like the Hague Code of Conduct against Ballistic Missile Proliferation (HCOC) and the voluntary Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) have been established globally. India, for instance, has joined the MTCR and possesses missiles like Agni P, Shaurya, Prithvi, Dhanush, and Sagarika.