North Korea has publicly confirmed the test launch of the 'Hwasong-11M-1,' believed to be a short-range hypersonic missile. The country claims to have successfully advanced its weapon systems by highlighting its low-altitude gliding and maneuverability capabilities.
The Korean Central News Agency reported on September 22 that the North Korean Missile Bureau conducted a test of a new combat weapon system on September 20, attended by Kim Jong Un. The agency described the test as a normal activity aimed at strengthening national defense and asserted that it did not pose a threat to the safety of neighboring countries.
Photos released by the Rodong Sinmun showed a monitor viewed by Kim displaying the phrase 'Hwasong-11M-1 flight trajectory.' The screen indicated flight time of 446.1 seconds, speed of 2,146 meters per second, altitude of 35.8 kilometers, and a flight distance of 908.2 kilometers.
The revealed flight trajectory showed the projectile descending after reaching its peak before ascending again at low altitude. This behavior is analyzed as a characteristic of hypersonic missiles that repeatedly leap and glide to evade defense systems.
The Hwasong-11M is a weapon that combines a hypersonic glide vehicle with North Korea's KN-23 short-range ballistic missile, often referred to as the North Korean version of the Iskander. Its high speed, low altitude, and maneuverability make it difficult for existing missile defense systems to detect and intercept.
Kim described the test as a demonstration of advanced national defense technology and a significant renewal in military modernization. He emphasized that acquiring new military technology holds important implications for war readiness and future military development.
Kim's daughter, Ju Ae, also accompanied him at the test site. This marks North Korea's 14th ballistic missile launch this year.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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