Kim Jong Un Observes Test of New Missile Systems

Kim Jong Un, chairman of North Korea's State Affairs Commission, observed tests of a new lightweight multi-purpose missile launcher and a multiple-rocket tactical cruise missile weapon system on the 26th. The tests of these weapon systems, developed by the Academy of Defense Science, were conducted as part of North Korea's five-year goal for defense development.

The tests analyzed and evaluated the power of the 'special mission warhead' for tactical ballistic missiles, the ultra-precise autonomous guidance navigation system for extended-range 240mm multiple rocket launcher shells, and the artificial intelligence-guided strike accuracy of tactical cruise missiles. Chairman Kim Jong Un assessed the tests as an 'event' signifying a renewal of military strength and a major technological advancement in enhancing combat power. He added that the fire control systems and automation systems of all launch vehicles have been modernized to meet the conditions of modern warfare, thereby improving their combat applicability.

North Korea claims that the tested tactical cruise missiles can precisely strike targets within 100 km by combining an ultra-precise autonomous navigation system that calculates its own position without external assistance, terrain contour matching, and an AI terminal guidance function. This weapon system is scheduled to be deployed to long-range artillery brigades along the southern border, placing most of the Seoul metropolitan area within its range upon deployment.

South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff stated that North Korea launched various projectiles, including short-range ballistic missiles, into the West Sea from the vicinity of Jeongju, North Pyongan Province, around 1 p.m. on the 26th, with the short-range ballistic missiles flying approximately 80 km. They analyzed that North Korea employed a 'mixed-launch' tactic, firing both missiles and rocket artillery.