North Korea Missile Test: Cruise Missiles Launched
2 min read
MARCH 05,2025
SEOUL, Feb. 28 (UPI) – North Korea missile test has once again drawn global attention as the country test-fired strategic cruise missiles into the Yellow Sea, showcasing its nuclear deterrent capabilities, according to state-run media.
Missile Launch Details
The missiles were launched from the country’s western region on Wednesday morning and followed a 986-mile oval trajectory before hitting their targets after about 130 minutes of flight, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported.
Purpose of the Missile Test
The drill aimed to send a message to its adversaries, warning them of North Korea’s ability to counter any threat. The report emphasized the readiness of the Korean People’s Army (KPA) and its nuclear operational strength.
Kim Jong Un’s Response
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw a strategic cruise missile launching drill in the Yellow Sea, state-run media reported Friday. The missiles were fired on Wednesday from an undisclosed location in the western part of the country. Photo by KCNA/EPA-EFE
Leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the launch and expressed satisfaction, stating that continuously testing nuclear deterrent systems is a necessary step in ensuring the country’s defense.
South Korea and U.S. Reactions
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) confirmed that their military had detected the launch preparations and tracked multiple missiles. Intelligence teams from South Korea and the U.S. are now analyzing the specifications of the missiles. The JCS assured that their forces remain vigilant with a strong defense posture alongside the U.S.
Rising Tensions with the U.S.
This marks North Korea’s fourth missile launch of the year and the second since the inauguration of U.S. President Donald Trump’s second term. The North had previously tested a cruise missile system on Jan. 25, shortly after Trump’s return to office.
Despite speculation about a potential revival of nuclear talks, North Korea continues to take an aggressive stance against the U.S. Last week, Pyongyang rejected Washington’s calls for denuclearization, reaffirming Kim Jong Un’s commitment to expanding the country’s nuclear arsenal.
Upcoming U.S.-South Korea Military Drills
The latest missile test comes ahead of the annual U.S.-South Korea Freedom Shield military drills in March. Pyongyang has consistently condemned these joint exercises, calling them rehearsals for invasion.
Conclusion
With tensions rising, North Korea’s missile tests serve as a stark reminder of its growing military ambitions and strategic positioning on the global stage.
RELATED
- North Korea Sends More Troops to Russia Amid War
- North Korea Crypto Theft Hits Record $1.5 Billion, FBI Confirms
- North Korea Warns U.S. Over Aircraft Carrier in South Korea
About The Author
