Pyongyang: North Korea claims to have unveiled a multiple launch system, capable of launching nuclear-tipped rockets. In a video, circulated over social media, Kim Jong Un is seen personally overseeing the ceremony.
Dressed in a black leather jacket, he climbs into one of the trucks with the rocket launchers mounted.
The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) has said that the newly introduced 600-mm multiple launch rocket system is designed for what Pyongyang described as a “strategic mission”. This is a term widely interpreted as nuclear deployment.
Kim has been quoted as saying that the system was “appropriate for a special attack, that is, for accomplishing a strategic mission,” while insisting it would serve as a deterrent against unnamed adversaries.
“When this weapon is used actually, no force would be able to expect God’s protection,” Kim said, adding: “It is really a wonderful and attractive weapon.”
These rockets could target South Korea, particularly the capital region, which lies less than 50 km from the border, analysts believe. North Korea has long relied on the threat of large-scale artillery “saturation” strikes as a core wartime strategy, as reported by Mathrubhumi English.
There has been a sharp acceleration in Pyongyang’s missile testing programme in recent years, aimed at improving precision-strike capability and countering both the United States and South Korea. Analysts also say the tests could be linked to potential arms exports, including to Russia.
Much of this also has to do with a major ruling party congress expected later this year, where defence policy and economic strategy are likely to dominate discussions.
Meanwhile, Kim’s sister, Kim Yo Jong, in a separate statement said she “highly appreciates” South Korea’s pledge to prevent further drone incursions after Pyongyang claimed it had shot down a surveillance drone last month.
“I highly appreciate Chung Dong-young, minister of unification of the ROK, officially acknowledged the ROK-born drone’s provocative intrusion into the airspace of our country, expressing regret once again and willingness to prevent a recurrence,” she said, according to KCNA.
