Hwasongpho-11 Da-4.5 North Korea Tests Its New Ballistic Missile.

North Korean state media reported on September 19, 2024, that leader Kim Jong Un successfully supervised tests of a new tactical ballistic missile as well as an improved strategic cruise missile. The announcement was made one day after the missile tests, aimed at strengthening the country's military capabilities amid what North Korea perceives as growing threats from external forces.
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The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) stated that the new missile, named the Hwasongpho-11 Da-4.5, is designed to carry a 4.5-ton conventional warhead. (Picture source: KCNA)

The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) stated that the new missile, named the Hwasongpho-11 Da-4.5, is designed to carry a 4.5-ton conventional warhead. The test-firing was conducted to verify the missile's ability to accurately hit targets at a range of 320 kilometers. In addition to the ballistic missile, an upgraded version of a strategic cruise missile was also tested, although specific details about the improvements were not disclosed.

South Korea's military confirmed that North Korea launched short-range ballistic missiles from the Kaechon area in South Phyongan Province, near Pyongyang, on Wednesday. According to South Korean defense authorities, these missiles flew northeastward, covering a distance of about 400 kilometers. This launch is part of North Korea's ongoing efforts to develop and refine its missile capabilities.

The KCNA report cited Kim Jong Un, who emphasized that these tests and the continuous improvement of weapons are "directly related to the grave threat of outside forces to the state security environment of the DPRK." The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) continues to assert that its military development is a response to perceived external threats and challenges to its sovereignty.

The test of the Hwasongpho-11 Da-4.5 follows a similar missile launch in July. At that time, another test was planned but ultimately did not take place. The recent test indicates a renewed focus on developing tactical ballistic missile systems, which North Korea views as essential for strengthening its defense capabilities.

Kim Jong Un's presence at the launch underscores the importance that the North Korean leadership places on its missile program. The country's ongoing military activities are closely monitored by neighboring countries and the international community, as they are seen as indicators of North Korea's strategic intentions and its response to regional security dynamics.