- BIST10011,430-2.49%
- USD49.45+0.05%
- EUR55.62+0.37%
- GOLD4,163.20-0.43%
- INTEREST37.00%-1.00
- BITCOIN81,872-0.17%
- October 19, 202616°
- BIST10011,430-2.49%
- USD49.45+0.05%
- EUR55.62+0.37%
- GOLD4,163.20-0.43%
- INTEREST37.00%-1.00
- BITCOIN81,872-0.17%
- October 19, 202616°
North Korea's new nuclear-capable missile threatens US bases in Asia
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un oversaw the test of a strategic cruise missile with a range of 2,000 kilometers from the new Kang Kon destroyer. The missile is nuclear-capable, and Kim gave strict orders for the ship to enter service within two months.
North Korea has taken military tensions on the Korean Peninsula to a new level. Leader Kim Jong-un personally oversaw the test launch of a new nuclear-capable strategic cruise missile from the deck of the Kang Kon destroyer, the country's largest warship.
Footage broadcast on state television showed a comprehensive military exercise in which naval artillery systems and electronic warfare equipment were also tested. The display drew varied reactions internationally.
Range capable of striking US bases
According to assessments by South Korean experts, the missile, believed to belong to the 'Hwasal' (Winged Arrow) series, is 7 meters long and weighs 1,300 kilograms. Its 2,000-kilometer range directly threatens US military bases in South Korea and Japan.
The use of the term 'strategic' by the North Korean news agency is interpreted as attributing nuclear warhead capability to the missile.
Modern destroyer with 88 launchers
The Kang Kon destroyer, which hosted the tests, is the largest warship North Korea has ever built. The 5,000-ton vessel is 145 meters long and 16 meters wide. Its most striking feature is the 88 vertical missile launch cells installed on its sides. This firepower sets the ship apart among modern destroyers. The ship also has a 130-millimeter main gun at the bow.
Leader imposes tight schedule on crew
According to Al Jazeera, the test was conducted against the backdrop of stern orders from Kim Jong-un. The leader demanded that the destroyer, which was launched a year ago but failed its sea trials, be made fully operational within two months. Officials are working intensively to avoid Kim's wrath and possible severe punishment, while the fate of those responsible for the previous failure remains unclear.
Online reactions
The military announcement sparked a range of opinions on social media. Comments compiled in the July 5, 2026 episode of Al Jazeera's 'Shabakat' program are as follows:
- Praise and warning: Some users praised North Korea's military development while warning that if this technology were sold to Russia or China, an alliance could emerge that the US and its allies would be unable to counter.
- Routine display: Another segment argued that this is a routine show of force that Kim repeats about three times a year, with no real substance.
- Geopolitical risk: Comments suggesting that Kim is looking for trouble and will be the next US target after Iran also drew attention. The same comment stated that producing weapons is the right strategy at a time when the world is preoccupied with trivial matters.
- Military scenario: Another user claimed that when things get serious, the US and its allies will strike Kim from an unexpected direction, and he won't even have time to use the weapons he produced.
Stay Updated with RuskiGazeta
Subscribe to be informed about special news, developments and announcements. We will keep you informed.
By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy
