Official announcements from the respective countries' defense ministries

North Korea Tests Solid-Fuel Hwasong-19 ICBM Capable of Reaching US Mainland

Oct 31, 2024, 07:42 AM

North Korea has conducted a test launch of its new solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), the Hwasong-19, state media reported on November 1, 2024. The missile, which North Korea describes as the 'world's most powerful strategic missile' and the 'ultimate version', reached a record altitude of approximately 7,687.5 kilometers and flew for about 86 minutes, covering a distance of 1,001.2 kilometers before landing in the Sea of Japan. This marks the longest flight time and highest altitude ever recorded for a North Korean missile. The launch, overseen by leader Kim Jong Un, was conducted from an 11-axle transporter erector launcher. It is the first test of an ICBM in almost a year and demonstrates advancements in North Korea's missile technology, potentially extending its capability to strike the continental United States with a potential range of 15,000 kilometers.