North Korea Unveils Smaller Nuclear Warheads, Vows to Produce More
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un recently visited the country’s Nuclear Weapons Institute and inspected newly developed tactical nuclear weapons. The images of the warheads that he viewed indicate progress in miniaturizing them so that they can be mounted on intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of reaching the United States.
The smaller warheads, called Hwasan31s, were most likely designed for use with missiles and submarines. Kim has ordered the production of weapongrade nuclear materials to boost the country’s nuclear arsenal “exponentially” and produce more powerful weapons.
Kim even conducted a nuclear counterattack simulation and fired short-range ballistic missiles. This is part of the North Korea’s ongoing effort to enhance its nuclear capabilities amid escalating tensions with the US and South Korea.
South Korean President Criticizes North Korea Over Nuclear Program
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol criticized North Korea’s nuclear program and said that the country did not deserve “a single penny” of economic aid while pushing for nuclear development. This statement comes after North Korea launched several missile tests in recent weeks.
The USS Nimitz carrier strike group led by Rear Admiral Christopher Sweeney also docked at the Busan naval base in South Korea after conducting joint maritime drills with South Korean forces. However, North Korea has accused these allies of stoking tensions and using exercises to prepare for an invasion.
North Korea Ramps Up Missile Testing
North Korea continued its missile testing activities despite international pressure to stop. The country recently tested a new underwater weapon called Haeil in response to US-South Korea military exercises.
Additionally, North Korea fired a ballistic missile off its east coast just days after conducting another round of missile tests from South Hamgyong province. The latest missile launch was confirmed by South Korea’s military and Japan’s Coast Guard.
Pyongyang has accused South Korea and the US of warmongering and pushing the situation on the Korean peninsula to an extreme red line. However, Commander of the strike group, Rear Adm. Christopher Sweeney, emphasized that the US seeks peace and security but will not be coerced or bullied.
North Korea Expanding Nuclear Arsenal
North Korea is determined to expand its nuclear arsenal despite increasing international pressure. Kim Jong Un has called on scientists to expand production of weapongrade nuclear materials and build more powerful weapons.
Kim stated that North Korea should prepare to use its nuclear weapons anytime and anywhere. He wants to strengthen the country’s nuclear force steadily and increase its arsenal exponentially.
The policy of expanding North Korea’s arsenal is aimed at defending the country and regional peace and stability according to Kim. North Korea declared itself an irreversible nuclear power last year and has been ramping up its weapons demonstrations as allies resumed their large-scale training.
In conclusion, tensions between North Korea, the US, and South Korea continue to escalate amid ongoing weapons testing activities in the region. While international pressure mounts for North Korea to stop its nuclear program, the country remains determined to expand its nuclear capabilities.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
