North Korea tests launch of strategic cruise missiles from submarines

North Korea conducted a test launch of two types of strategic cruise missiles from submarines, according to the Korean Central News Agency, in a step aimed at verifying the operational readiness of underwater combat systems as part of navy drills.

North Korea conducted a test launch of two types of strategic cruise missiles from submarines, according to the Korean Central News Agency on Thursday. The missiles were fired on Wednesday toward the East Sea (Sea of Japan), and the agency confirmed that the test did not have "any negative impact on the security of neighboring countries." The agency stated that the purpose of the test was to verify the operational readiness of underwater combat systems as part of navy drills, and it demonstrated the reliability of the country's military deterrence capabilities. The test comes weeks after tensions between the two Koreas, following a landmine explosion on September 21 inside the demilitarized zone under Seoul's control, which injured three South Korean soldiers. Since then, both sides have tested advanced missile technologies. Photos released by the agency showed missiles launching from the sea at different angles, along with a projectile flying horizontally over the water and a submarine floating on the surface. Hong Min, a researcher at the Korea Institute for National Unification, told AFP that the vertical and angled launch of the missiles holds tactical significance, as each allows for different uses.