Seoul: North Korea has conducted a test of an advanced nuclear-capable multiple rocket launcher system (MRLS), further escalating military tensions in the region. The test took place amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and was detected shortly after neighboring South Korea reported multiple projectile launches.
According to the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), the test was personally supervised by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Saturday. The exercise reportedly involved twelve 600-millimeter precision multiple rocket launchers along with two artillery units, demonstrating what officials described as the system’s high accuracy and destructive capability.
Long-Range Rocket System Displayed
KCNA reported that the newly tested launcher system has a range of up to 420 kilometers (about 260 miles). According to the report, Kim said the weapons system would make Pyongyang’s adversaries within that range “feel constant unease” and better understand the destructive potential of the country’s tactical nuclear weapons.
Images released by North Korean media showed Kim observing the test from a distance along with his daughter Kim Ju Ae and senior military officials. Kim Ju Ae has appeared at several high-profile public events recently, fueling speculation that she could play a future leadership role in the country.
South Korea Detects Multiple Launches
South Korea’s military confirmed that it detected several projectiles launched toward the East Sea, also known internationally as the Sea of Japan. The launches were reported by the South’s Joint Chiefs of Staff.
Officials in Seoul strongly condemned the test, describing it as a provocation that violates United Nations Security Council resolutions that restrict North Korea’s missile and nuclear weapons development.
Military Drills and Diplomatic Signals
The launch occurred just days after the United States and South Korea began their annual spring military exercises known as Freedom Shield. The drills involve around 18,000 South Korean troops and are scheduled to continue until March 19. Pyongyang has frequently criticized such exercises, calling them rehearsals for invasion.
Meanwhile, diplomatic signals have also emerged from Washington. Former U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly expressed interest in holding talks again with Kim Jong Un, raising the possibility of renewed high-level engagement between the two countries later this year.
Kim has previously indicated that improved relations with the United States could be possible if Washington acknowledges North Korea’s status as a nuclear-armed state.
Condemnation of Middle East Conflict
In a separate statement, North Korea also condemned the recent U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran, calling them “an illegal act of aggression.” Pyongyang claimed the strikes demonstrated what it described as Washington’s “hostile nature.”
North Korea has continued to expand its military capabilities in recent months, including missile tests from naval platforms. The government has also claimed it is working toward equipping its navy with nuclear weapons, signaling a broader push to strengthen its strategic deterrence.