North Korea’s Multiple Rocket Launcher and Nuclear Ambitions: A Dangerous Escalation in the Korean Peninsula

In recent news, North Korea has announced the successful launch of a multiple rocket launcher under the supervision of Kim Jong Un. According to KCNA, the state news agency, the flight characteristics, impact, and concentration indices of the 240 mm shell were evaluated satisfactorily during the test. The rocket launcher, equipped with new technology, is expected to bring a strategic change in strengthening North Korea’s artillery power.

Kim Jong Un has overseen a simulated “nuclear trigger” as a response to US-South Korean exercises that have taken place since the start of the year. In addition to this, North Korea has carried out several missile launches, including testing a new medium-to-long-range solid-fueled hypersonic missile and a very large warhead designed for a strategic cruise missile. Despite facing UN sanctions since 2006 that prohibit the development of ballistic missiles and nuclear weapons, Pyongyang continues its military programs and declared its status as a nuclear power “irreversible” in 2022. Furthermore, North Korea has intensified its hostility towards South Korea by designating them as their main enemy.

In March, Russia vetoed a draft resolution in the Security Council extending the mandate of a committee monitoring sanctions against North Korea. This move has further strengthened North Korea’s ties with Russia as they continue to exchange weapons for military technologies despite defying international sanctions and bolstering their military capabilities and alliances.