Kim Jong Un Oversees Test of High-Thrust Solid-Fuel Engine, Boosts Military Capabilities
Key Takeaways
- 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.
- North Korea showcased higher-thrust solid-fuel engine capabilities.
Solid-Fuel Engine Test
Kim Jong Un oversaw a ground test of a high-thrust solid-fuel missile engine using composite carbon fiber materials.
“Top DPRK leader oversees special operations units training: KCNA The top leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) oversaw the training of special operations units during a visit to a major training base, the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said Sunday”
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.
“North Korea's Kim oversees ground test of new high-thrust missile engine: KCNA Published: 29 Mar”
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.
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