North Korea Tests High-Thrust Missile Engine Capable of Targeting US Mainland Amid Rising Tensions

SEOUL (The Uttam Hindu): North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the test of a high-power solid-fuel engine, which is being described as a significant step towards strengthening the country's strategic military capabilities, according to North Korea's state media, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

The test indicates that North Korea is moving forward with expanding and modernizing its missile arsenal capable of reaching the US mainland. Earlier, in a speech to parliament, Kim Jong Un had vowed to make North Korea a permanent nuclear power and maintain a tough stance against South Korea.

Engine test and increased power

According to KCNA, Kim witnessed a 'ground jet' test of a new advanced engine made of composite carbon fiber. The engine's maximum thrust is reported to be 2,500 kilotons, which is higher than a similar test conducted in September (about 1,971 kilotons). Experts believe that the increased engine capacity may be linked to plans to carry multiple warheads in a single missile, making it easier to penetrate enemy defenses.

However, KCNA did not say when or where the test was conducted.

Focus on missiles capable of hitting the US

According to the report, the test is part of North Korea's five-year military expansion program aimed at further improving "strategic attack means." Kim Jong Un said the new engine will play a key role in elevating the country's military power to the "highest level."

It is worth noting that in recent years, North Korea has tested several intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), demonstrating its ability to strike the United States. These include solid-fuel missiles, which are more difficult to detect before launch.