North Korea’s Kim Jong Un oversaw the test-firing of a new anti-aircraft missile system, indicating the country’s military advancements, possibly with Russian support. The test coincided with U.S.-South Korean military drills, which North Korea condemned, indicating rising tensions in the region.
On Thursday, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervised the test-firing of the nation’s latest anti-aircraft missile system, as reported by state media KCNA. Experts speculate that North Korea may be receiving technical assistance from Russia to enhance these systems. Kim expressed gratitude towards the research group responsible for the missile system, stating the test demonstrated its “high reliability” and advantageous combat response.
While KCNA did not disclose the location of the test, it noted that Kim was accompanied by members of the Central Military Commission of the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea. Accompanying images showed a missile plume and mid-air explosions, along with Kim observing the test and appearing pleased.
Analysts believe Pyongyang’s collaboration with Russia on the anti-aircraft missile system is likely, particularly due to their deepening security relations. Shin Seung-ki, a military expert at the Korea Institute for Defense Analyses, suggested that North Korea’s historical reliance on Soviet weapon systems may play a role in their current developments. Russia is also believed to have supplied North Korea with anti-air missiles in exchange for military support in Ukraine.
Shin highlighted the complexity involved in producing interceptor missiles, noting that it requires sophisticated detection and tracking radar alongside a command and control system. Earlier reports indicated that South Korea’s military anticipated the missile launch that occurred around 9 a.m. on Thursday.
The test coincided with the conclusion of the annual U.S.-South Korea joint military exercises, termed Freedom Shield, which Pyongyang has repeatedly condemned as a precursor to invasion. In response to the drills, a North Korean defense ministry spokesperson labeled them “reckless” and described them as a “rehearsal of war,” arguing that all options are being considered to counter U.S. and South Korean military actions.
In summary, Kim Jong Un’s supervision of North Korea’s test-firing of a new anti-aircraft missile system underscores the regime’s ongoing military development, potentially aided by Russian assistance. The backdrop of recent U.S.-South Korea military exercises has heightened tensions, with North Korea asserting its intent to counter any perceived threats through military means. The situation reflects the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the region, where collaboration between North Korea and Russia may continue to evolve amidst rising animosity toward joint military drills conducted by the U.S. and South Korea.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
