North Korean Leader: Our New Weapon Will Cause Our Enemies a Headache With No Cure

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw a successful test launch of a new medium-range hypersonic ballistic missile on Monday, vowing to accelerate Pyongyang's nuclear and missile capabilities. The missile was launched from the outskirts of Pyongyang, traveled approximately 1,500 kilometers at a speed 12 times the speed of sound, and reached an altitude of nearly 100 kilometers before descending to a "second peak" of 42.5 kilometers, where it maneuvered for a precise landing on the eastern coast, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). KCNA stated that new composite materials made of carbon fiber were used in the missile's engine section. Carbon fiber is lighter and stronger than other materials, such as aluminum, but is more difficult to manufacture. The agency added that the missile "can effectively penetrate any dense defensive barrier and deliver a severe military strike to the enemy." However, the South Korean military said that KCNA's report was likely exaggerated, estimating the range at approximately 1,100 kilometers. It added that a second peak could not be detected, although a detailed analysis will be conducted with the United States. A "second peak" indicates that the missile can alter its trajectory and maintain altitude rather than following a ballistic descent path. Kim praised the missile, describing it as a powerful weapon against the security threats posed by hostile forces and the changing regional environment. KCNA quoted Kim as saying, "The development of a new type of hypersonic missile is fundamentally aimed at continuously strengthening the nuclear deterrent possessed by North Korea." KCNA published images of Kim monitoring the launch via a video conference alongside his young daughter, as well as a missile lifting off from one of the fields.