North Korea tests missile with autonomous navigation system
North Korea has successfully tested a missile with a "new autonomous navigation system", vowing to boost its nuclear capability as a deterrent against its enemies after the US and South Korea conducted joint drills with stealth fighter jets simulating air combat.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un oversaw the launch of the tactical ballistic missile into the East Sea, official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported on Saturday.
The projectile flew around 300 kilometers before splashing down in waters between South Korea and Japan, the Joint Chiefs of Staff in Seoul said.
KCNA praised the accuracy and reliability of the new autonomous navigation system used in the missile. Kim also expressed satisfaction with the system, citing its benefits and strategic value as a result of the independent development and successful introduction.
In recent weeks, Kim has overseen the testing of 600 mm “super-large” multiple rocket launchers and 240 mm multiple launch rockets and visited production facilities.
North Korea has fired off cruise missiles, tactical rockets and hypersonic weapons in recent months to upgrade its defenses.
The new test came hours after the North Korean leader’s sister, Kim Yo-jong, dismissed “absurd” US reports that Pyongyang was sending weapons and munitions to Russia for use against Ukraine.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping on Thursday denounced the US and its regional allies for engaging in “intimidation in the military sphere” against North Korea.
On Thursday, South Korean F-35As and US F-22 Raptors conducted aerial exercises which Pyongyang sees as a rehearsal for possible invasion of the North.
South Korea said stealth fighters conducted “intense” joint exercises in the central region to test and enhance offensive and defensive maneuverability.
North Korea also denounced joint military drills scheduled for August as a “nuclear attack exercise”, warning Washington and Seoul that they could face a “catastrophic aftermath” if the drills were carried out.
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