North Korea confirmed the test-fire of a tactical ballistic missile equipped with a new autonomous navigation system, as announced by state media on May 18. Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un personally oversaw the launch into the East Sea, aiming to evaluate the system’s accuracy and reliability. This launch adds to a series of increasingly sophisticated tests, including hypersonic weapons and tactical rockets, showcasing North Korea’s efforts to enhance its defense capabilities.
The missile test occurred shortly after Kim’s sister, Kim Yo Jong, refuted allegations of arms shipments to Russia for use in the Ukraine conflict. Despite international sanctions, Pyongyang remains steadfast in its pursuit of bolstering its nuclear force, with plans to accelerate munitions production by 2025, as reiterated by Kim during a recent visit to a military production facility. The geopolitical context of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to China further amplifies North Korea’s strategic messaging, underscoring the intricate dynamics shaping East Asian security.