Seoul, Jan 28 (NationPress) North Korea has conducted a test of its enhanced large-caliber multiple rocket launcher system (MRLS) to evaluate its performance, as reported by state media on Wednesday. Kim Jong-un oversaw this significant trial, emphasizing its importance in strengthening the country's strategic deterrence capabilities. Kim described the test as having "great significance in improving the effectiveness of our strategic deterrent," indicating that this weapon system is intended for "specific attacks," according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

This weapons test occurs just ahead of North Korea's anticipated first ruling party congress in five years, scheduled for early next month. Kim noted that the upcoming ninth congress would detail plans for enhancing the nation’s nuclear deterrent.

On the day prior, South Korea's military reported detecting multiple short-range ballistic missiles launched from areas north of Pyongyang towards the East Sea, as stated by the Yonhap news agency. The KCNA quoted Kim proclaiming, "All the indexes have been improved to maximize its strike capability, with particular advancements in mobility, intelligence, and accuracy of the rockets."

He highlighted the weapon's "self-steered precisely guided flight system" as a key feature, showcasing the ongoing enhancements in their defense technology. Kim confirmed that these developments aim to elevate the nation's deterrent against nuclear conflict.

Kim also stated, "Establishing the most reliable offensive capability and executing a deterrence strategy based on it is the unwavering stance of our party's national defense policy." Released images from the test featured Kim's daughter, Ju-ae, alongside him, along with Kim Jong-sik, the first vice department director of the party's Central Committee, and Jang Chang-ha, the chief of the Missile Administration.

The missile launch appears to be a demonstration of strength, as North Korea is expected to reveal five-year plans for advancements in defense, the economy, and other sectors at the upcoming ninth congress, the first since the eighth in 2021.

This test coincides with a visit from US Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby to South Korea, where discussions on security matters, including Seoul's initiative to develop nuclear-powered submarines, took place. Following his three-day trip to Seoul, he proceeded to Japan.

According to the KCNA, Tuesday's test of four MRLS rockets utilizing new technological advancements successfully hit a target located 358.5 kilometers from the launch point. Experts have speculated that the self-steered precisely guided flight system referenced by Kim may suggest a new navigation system designed to counter GPS jamming.

Researcher Shin Jong-woo from the Korea Defence and Security Forum mentioned, "There’s a possibility a military-grade GPS system provided by Russia may have been integrated," noting that these systems are resistant to jamming. Lim Eul-chul, a professor at Kyungnam University's Institute for Far Eastern Studies, suggested that Kim's characterization of the MRLS as suitable for "specific attacks" might indicate its potential to carry tactical nuclear weapons.

North Korea's multiple rocket launchers, with a caliber of 600 millimeters, can reach a maximum distance of 400 kilometers, which places all key military installations in South Korea within their range.