Kim Jong Un has overseen a test of a new solid-fuel engine for a nuclear-capable missile, describing it as a significant advancement in strengthening the country’s strategic military capabilities, according to the state news agency KCNA, as reported by Associated Press.
The engine uses carbon fiber composite materials and has a maximum thrust of 2,500 kilotons—higher than previous tests, which reached 1,970 kilotons.
The test is part of North Korea’s five-year program aimed at improving its strategic strike capabilities, including nuclear-capable ballistic missiles and other weapons systems.
International experts warn that some of North Korea’s claims may be exaggerated, as key details—such as the engine’s total burn time—have not been disclosed.
Nevertheless, the development of more powerful solid-fuel engines could enable the construction of smaller intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), which could be launched from submarines or mobile truck platforms.
North Korea’s nuclear weapons and missile program has intensified following the collapse of diplomacy with the United States in 2019, as the country continues to enhance its missile capabilities to reach U.S. territory and that of its allies.
North Korea conducts engine test for missile capable of targeting US mainland.
