N. Korea: Latest Missile Test ‘Successful, Proves Capability to Carry Nuclear Warheads’

Local Editor

Pyongyang claimed that its medium-range ballistic missile test carried out on Sunday under the supervision of Kim Jong-un confirmed the "tactical specifications and technical characteristics" of the rocket which North Korea says is capable of carrying nuclear warheads.

North Korea succeeded in launching its new surface-to-surface missile on May 14, Pyongyang's official Central News Agency announced.

"The test fire was conducted with maximum angle of the projectile's elevation in consideration of the safety of neighboring countries, with the aim of confirming the tactical specifications and technical characteristics of the new long-range strategic ballistic rockets capable of loading powerful heavy-weight nuclear warheads," KCNA announced.

According to Pyongyang, the launch has enabled testing in "actual flight conditions" the missile's "stabilization, structural, pressurization and launch systems," as well as "reliability of the rocket's engine" and its integrity "in the harsh reentry environment."

"The launched rocket flew up to the maximum peak altitude of 2,111.5 kilometers along the scheduled flight orbit and precisely hit the target waters 787-kilometers away," the communications ministry's announcement read. The country's leader, Kim Jong-un, led the launch of a new type of rocket, the report noted.

The latest missile test coincides with rising tensions in the region and a massive American military buildup there. In an attempt to deter Pyongyang from more nuclear and missile tests, the US has sent a group of American warships, led by an aircraft carrier, to the region. It has also been conducting war games with their regional allies. Last month, Washington also positioned elements of the THAAD anti-missile system on the Peninsula.

Source: News Agencies, Edited by website team