North Korea tests new multi-purpose missile launch system

North Korea confirmed Wednesday that it had tested a new lightweight multiple rocket launch system, along with a tactical cruise missile weapons system.

The official Korean Central News Agency said the tests, which had previously been disclosed by South Korea’s military, were supervised by Kim Jong Un.

On Tuesday, South Korea announced that the North had launched several projectiles, including a ballistic missile, off its western coast in the latest military tests this year, adding that the missiles traveled around 80 kilometers.

Analysts believe Pyongyang may be seeking to exploit weakening international standards through its recent missile tests in order to reinforce its nuclear status.

KCNA said Tuesday’s tests “analyzed and evaluated the power of a special-mission warhead mounted on a tactical ballistic missile, as well as the reliability of a 240 mm guided artillery rocket with extended range using an ultra-precise autonomous navigation system.”

Kim was quoted as saying the weapons systems were “a clear sign of the modernization of our armed forces and an event demonstrating major technological progress.”

He added, “Possessing sufficient destructive power as a prerequisite for our military operations theoretically makes it impossible for any hostile force to survive, except by chance.”

Kim also expressed satisfaction with the results of the tests, saying that “highly advanced defense science and technology were introduced into practical weapons testing.”

Photos published by KCNA showed a missile being launched from a mobile launcher, while Kim stood beside the platform surrounded by military officials.

North Korea is subject to United Nations sanctions banning the development of nuclear weapons and the use of ballistic missile technology, restrictions it has repeatedly violated.

Tuesday’s launches were North Korea’s first in 37 days and its eighth weapons test this year.