Pyongyang: North Korea has showcased its newly developed Hwasong-20 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) for the first time at a military parade marking the 80th anniversary of the founding of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the military parade, held at Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang on Friday night, was overseen by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and attended by high-ranking leaders from China, Russia, Vietnam, and other nations. The event was seen as Kim's attempt to solidify diplomatic ties with countries opposing the West while displaying North Korea's nuclear capabilities.
The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) described the Hwasong-20 ICBM as "the most powerful nuclear strategic weapon system" upon its disclosure at the parade. This missile, capable of striking the U.S. mainland, appeared to serve as a demonstration of North Korea's nuclear force and its possession of nuclear weapons in the presence of foreign leaders and guests.
During his speech, Kim Jong-un urged the armed forces to develop into an "invincible" entity. He emphasized the need for the military to grow in political, ideological, military, and technical superiority to overwhelm potential threats. Although Kim's speech did not directly mention the U.S. or South Korea, it highlighted the strength and discipline of North Korea's armed forces.
Foreign guests, including Chinese Premier Li Qiang, Dmitry Medvedev of Russia, and Vietnam's leader To Lam, were in attendance. The KCNA noted the enthusiastic cheers of spectators as the Hwasong-20 ICBM entered the square, highlighting its status as North Korea's most powerful nuclear strategic weapon.
The KCNA recently reported the testing of a new high-thrust solid-fuel missile engine, intended for use in the Hwasong-20 ICBM. This engine test, marking the ninth and final in the development process, boasts a maximum thrust of 1,971 kilonewtons. The new model may potentially carry multiple warheads, posing an increased missile threat to the U.S.
In addition to the Hwasong-20, the parade featured hypersonic missiles and various strategic weapon systems, underscoring North Korea's focus on self-defense capabilities. Other military hardware on display included Chonma-20 main battle tanks, howitzers, multiple rocket launchers, strategic cruise missiles, and drone launch vehicles.
Defense Minister No Kwang-chol led the marching troops, which included units responsible for missile operations and special operations. The parade also showcased an "invincible" foreign operations unit, hinting at North Korea's military support for Russia in its conflict with Ukraine.
This military parade follows a similar event in Beijing on September 3, where Kim Jong-un, alongside Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, demonstrated unity against the West.