North Korea Positions ICBM Launcher, Potential Test Near US Election Date
South Korean lawmakers reported on Wednesday (October 30) that North Korea has positioned a launcher prepared for an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) test, possibly timed around the US presidential election on November 5. Citing military intelligence, MP Lee Seong-kweun revealed that a mobile launcher has been moved to a location where it could soon conduct an ICBM test, including the critical atmospheric re-entry phase for the missile warhead.
Possible Nuclear Test Preparations at Punggye-ri
Another South Korean MP, Park Sun-won, added that North Korea’s preparations for a potential seventh nuclear test appear nearly complete. According to Park, work at Punggye-ri, North Korea’s primary nuclear test site in Kilju County, North Hamgyong Province, suggests an imminent test. The Punggye-ri site has been central to North Korea’s previous nuclear tests, and satellite monitoring indicates recent, increased activity.
Testing Trajectories and ICBM Development
In previous tests, North Korea launched ICBMs on sharply steep trajectories to prevent missiles from traveling too far, helping manage safety concerns and international responses. However, to ensure its ICBM capabilities, experts consider that a more standard, flatter trajectory test is necessary. This approach would allow North Korea to confirm whether its warhead technology can handle atmospheric re-entry and maintain controlled descent to hit a designated target.
The upcoming launch may signal a shift in North Korea’s testing tactics and showcase progress in its missile programme. The South Korean Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) believes that Pyongyang might capitalise on the high-profile timing of the US election to amplify its international message and demonstrate its strategic capabilities.