North Korea29 March, 20261 min read
Kim Jong Un Oversees Test of High-Thrust Solid-Fuel Engine, Boosts Military Capabilities
Kim Jong Un oversaw ground test of high-thrust solid-fuel missile engine using carbon fiber. He inspected special operations forces training and a new main battle tank.
Solid-Fuel Engine Test
Kim Jong Un oversaw a ground test of a high-thrust solid-fuel missile engine using composite carbon fiber materials. The engine produced a maximum thrust of 2,500 kilonewtons, a 26% increase over the previous test. The test was part of a five-year national defense development plan.
Missile Range and MRV Potential
The engine was developed for the Hwasong-20 intercontinental ballistic missile under development. North Korea has already developed Hwasong-18 and Hwasong-19 types with a range of 15,000 km. The thrust increase is linked to the development of MRV technology.
Conventional Forces Upgrades
Kim inspected special operations forces training and tests of a new main battle tank. KCNA quoted Kim stressing that much more sweat in peacetime training leads to less blood in the battlefield. Kim laid out plans to reorganize special operations units.