North Korea Demonstrates Counterattack Capabilities With Missile Tests

Friday 28 February 2025 - 10:10

By: Zahouani Ilham

North Korea Demonstrates Counterattack Capabilities With Missile Tests

North Korea has conducted a strategic cruise missile test in the Yellow Sea, a drill that, according to Pyongyang, showcases its ability to retaliate against threats. The test, carried out on Wednesday, was observed by leader Kim Jong Un, as reported by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

The missiles traveled 1,587 kilometers (986 miles) over a span of 130 minutes, striking their targets with precision. Pyongyang stated that the exercise was a warning to its adversaries, highlighting its preparedness for counterattacks and its nuclear operational capabilities.

State media images depicted Kim watching the test through binoculars, accompanied by officials, as a missile hit a structure, engulfing it in flames. Kim emphasized that North Korea’s nuclear forces are responsible for safeguarding national sovereignty and security, stating that a powerful strike capability serves as the "ultimate deterrent and defense."

Analyst Yang Moo-jin suggested that the test likely aimed to assess North Korea’s readiness for nuclear operations. Meanwhile, Pyongyang accused its adversaries of jeopardizing security and intensifying tensions.

While KCNA did not disclose the exact launch site, sources suggest it occurred near Nampho, approximately 130 kilometers (80 miles) from South Korea's border.

Rising Tensions in the Region

Relations between North and South Korea remain at a historic low, with Pyongyang having launched numerous ballistic missiles in defiance of UN sanctions last year. The upcoming joint military exercises between South Korea and the United States, known as "Freedom Shield," are expected to further inflame tensions, as North Korea views them as preparations for an invasion and often responds with missile tests.

The Korean Peninsula remains technically at war, as the 1950-1953 conflict ended in an armistice rather than a peace treaty.

In January, North Korea conducted a similar test, launching sea-to-surface strategic guided cruise missiles—the first such test since Donald Trump returned to the White House. Additionally, US and South Korean intelligence reports suggest that North Korea has deployed thousands of troops to Russia to support its war efforts in Ukraine, suffering significant casualties.

South Korean intelligence confirmed on Thursday that Pyongyang has sent more troops to Russia, although specific numbers were not disclosed. It also reported that North Korea had repositioned its forces in the Kursk region, a frontline area where Ukraine previously claimed Pyongyang had withdrawn following heavy losses.

This week, Kim visited a key military academy, urging troops to gain practical experience in modern warfare, as North Korea continues to assert its military readiness. Despite mounting evidence, neither Pyongyang nor Moscow has officially confirmed North Korean troop involvement in Russia’s military operations.