Official announcements from the US Department of Defense

North Korea Tests New Hypersonic Missile with 1,500 km Range, Kim Jong Un Oversees Launch

Jan 6, 2025, 10:46 PM

North Korea conducted a successful test of a new intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missile on Monday, as reported by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). The missile, launched from a site in Pyongyang, traveled approximately 1,500 kilometers at a speed 12 times that of sound, reaching peak altitudes of 99.8 kilometers and 42.5 kilometers before landing in the open sea. The test was overseen by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, who described the missile as a crucial component of the country's strategic deterrence. The missile's engine body was made with a new carbon fiber compound, and it incorporated advanced flight and guidance control systems. Kim emphasized that the weapon system is designed to counter security threats and deter rivals in the Pacific region.