North Korean Leader: Developing a Solid Fuel Rocket Engine Enhances Our Nuclear Power

SadaNews - Official media reported that North Korean leader Kim Jong-un oversaw the testing of a solid-fuel rocket engine, stating that "the development of this engine heralds an important change in the nuclear strength of his country."

The German news agency reported that this new step is part of Kim's efforts to build an arsenal capable of threatening U.S. territory.

The Korean Central News Agency stated that Monday's test was the ninth and final ground test of the solid-fuel engine made from carbon fiber, with a thrust capacity of up to 1971 kilonewtons, which is stronger than previous models.

The report followed a week after Kim's visit to the research institute developing the engine, which North Korea stated would be used in future missiles, including a system known as "Hwasong-20."

In recent years, Pyongyang has conducted test flights of intercontinental ballistic missiles theoretically capable of reaching U.S. territory, including missiles equipped with solid fuel that are easier to transport, conceal, and prepare for launch quickly compared to conventional liquid fuel.

Qualitative Change

Kim called for further development of long-range weapons capabilities, including multiple warhead systems that enhance the chances of penetrating missile defense systems.

So far, all tests have been conducted on more inclined trajectories to avoid the missiles flying over neighboring territories.

The agency reported that Kim expressed satisfaction after the test, describing this "amazing development" as a "qualitative change" in his efforts to expand North Korea's nuclear capabilities.

Kim has intensified testing activities since the collapse of nuclear talks with the United States in 2019 during the first term of President Donald Trump, where he showcased weapons with various ranges targeting Washington's allies in Asia as well as U.S. territory.

Analysts believe his ultimate goal is to push Washington to recognize North Korea as a nuclear power and negotiate economic and security concessions from a position of strength.

Experts state that Pyongyang has not yet mastered the technology necessary to ensure that warheads can withstand re-entry conditions into the atmosphere.

Source: German News Agency