Pyongyang, North Korea – Kim Jong Un has overseen the successful test of a high-thrust, solid-fuel engine designed for advanced weapons, marking a significant step in the country’s ongoing military expansion.
According to state media, the test signals North Korea’s intent to strengthen its arsenal of long-range missiles capable of reaching the United States mainland. The development comes just days after Kim pledged to permanently cement his nation’s status as a nuclear power during a key political address.
Okay News reports that the newly upgraded engine, built with carbon fibre composite materials, reportedly delivers greater thrust than previous versions, potentially enabling missiles to carry multiple warheads. Analysts say this could improve the chances of evading missile defence systems.
The test forms part of North Korea’s broader five-year military development plan, which focuses on enhancing “strategic strike” capabilities—widely understood to refer to nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).
Despite these advances, experts remain divided over whether North Korea has fully mastered the technology required for reliable long-range nuclear strikes, particularly the challenge of ensuring warheads survive atmospheric re-entry. However, the country’s continued testing suggests steady progress in its weapons programme.
Tensions between North Korea and the United States have persisted since nuclear negotiations between Kim and former U.S. President Donald Trump collapsed in 2019, with Pyongyang continuing to push forward its missile and nuclear ambitions.
