North Korea puts missile production capabilities on display in a nighttime parade on Wednesday, featuring an unprecedented display of ICBMs (Inter Continental Ballistic Missiles) and hints of a new solid fuel weapon
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North Korea marked the 75th anniversary of its army with a parade that showcased multiple long-range missiles and also its nuclear advancements. The display of military might and advancements in missile technology demonstrate North Korea’s commitment to enhancing its military capabilities. Analysts noted the presence of what appeared to be a new, solid-fueled intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) among the weapons on display.
Parade Marks the 75th Anniversary of North Korea’s Armed Forces
North Korea marked the 75th founding anniversary of its armed forces with a parade featuring fireworks, military bands, and uniformed soldiers marching in unison to spell out “2.8” and “75”. Kim Jong Un, wearing the black coat and fedora combination favored by his grandfather along with his wife and daughter attended the parade. The parade was held on February 8 in Pyongyang’s central Kim Il Sung Square.
Kim Jong Un was seen standing in the square, saluting as troops and missile units paraded past. The parade included at least 10 of the country’s largest Hwasong-17 intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), as well as vehicles that appeared to be designed to carry a solid-fueled ICBM, according to Seoul-based specialist site NK News. North Korea has long sought to develop a solid-fueled ICBM, which could make its nuclear weapons harder to detect and destroy.
New and Improved Missiles on Display in North Korean Parade
On Wednesday night, North Korea showcased multiple long-range missiles in a parade. Analysts observed the presence of what appeared to be a new solid-fueled intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) among the weapons displayed.
In December, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervised a test of a high-thrust solid-fuel motor for a new strategic weapon, which he stated would be developed in the shortest time possible. Experts believe that this likely refers to the development of a solid-fuel Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM). The shift to solid fuel in North Korea’s missile systems enhances their strike capability, offering greater mobility and reducing launch preparation time, making them more difficult to detect and destroy in mid-flight and thereby increasing their attack potential.
Kim Jong Un and his Daughter Show Support for the Armed Forces
Kim Jong Un and his daughter, Kim Ju-ae, attended a celebratory dinner to mark the 75th anniversary of the country’s armed forces. The father-daughter duo showed their solidarity with North Korea’s military and the event was reported to be a significant display of the next generation of North Korean leadership.
Photos released by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) showed Kim Ju-ae seated between her father and mother, Ri Sol-Ju, at a banquet surrounded by military officers. It is believed to have taken place at a hotel in Pyongyang. This public appearance of Kim Ju-ae highlights the growing prominence of the next generation of North Korean leadership.
Some observers believe that Kim is using his daughter to send a message to the world that he has no intention of giving up his nuclear arsenal. The arsenal is seen as his best insurance against any attempt to overthrow his regime and end the rule of the Kim dynasty, which has lasted for several decades.
North Korean Advancement in Nuclear Capabilities a Threat to Global Security
Ankit Panda, a US-based analyst, stated that North Korea displayed more intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) than ever before, which aligns with their goal of mass-producing nuclear weapons and delivery systems. This presents a challenge to the United States, as its homeland missile defense system is only designed to handle a limited missile threat from North Korea.
Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha University in Seoul, echoed Panda’s sentiment, adding that the parade serves as North Korea’s declaration as a full-fledged nuclear power. The display of advanced Hwasong-17 missiles in the parade sends a clear message to the world of North Korea’s commitment to enhancing its nuclear capabilities.
The recent developments in North Korea’s nuclear and missile program pose a significant threat to global security. The recent display of multiple long-range missiles and the shift to solid fuel only highlight the growing capabilities of the country’s weapons systems.
The country’s leadership has made it clear that they have no intention of giving up their nuclear arsenal, viewing it as their best insurance against any attempt to bring an end to their rule. This presents a challenge to the international community and highlights the need for continued monitoring and engagement in order to address the threat posed by North Korea to global security.
