North Korea says its recent tests were 'tactical nuclear' simulations

Photo provided on October 10, 2022 by the North Korean government: North Korean leader Kim Jong-un follows a missile test at an undisclosed location in North Korea.

This photo was taken between September 25 and October 9.

PA

Text by: RFI Follow

2 mins

Repeated North Korean ballistic missile tests for weeks are a simulation of "tactical nuclear strikes", according to Pyongyang.

These missile launches and the aviation exercises were supervised by Kim Jong-un in person, as revealed by photos from the official North Korean agency which specifies that it is a response to the maneuvers military of the United States and its South Korean allies.

And in particular to the presence in the region of an American nuclear-powered aircraft carrier.

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With our correspondent in Seoul,

Nicolas Rocca

After keeping silent about the seven tests conducted in a fortnight, North Korea has decided to light up its show of force sequence.

Overseen by Kim Jong-un himself, the trials were intended, in his words, to send a "

powerful signal to the enemy that escalates tensions in the region

".

Understand a response to the multiple US-South Korean military exercises of recent days, while reaffirming the regime's nuclear capabilities.

► To read also: 

North Korea: understand why the country is increasing the number of missile launches

And for this, Pyongyang would have simulated tactical nuclear strikes featuring different scenarios such as the neutralization of South Korean airports and ports as well as precision strikes on their main command centers.

A "

powerful and clear warning to the enemy

"

Regarding the

resounding October 4 test

in which a missile flew over Japan, only one line was devoted to it in state media stating that it was a "

strong and clear warning to the enemy

".

A warning meant to show the United States and South Korea that their tough military response in recent days is unable to roll back Pyongyang, which Kim Jong-un says has no interest in engaging in a dialogue with Seoul and Washington.

► To read also: 

South Korea and the United States fire four missiles after the North Korean launch

Photo provided on October 10, 2022 by the North Korean government which is believed to show a missile test at an undisclosed location in North Korea, taken between September 25 and October 9.

PA

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  • North Korea

  • South Korea

  • United States

  • Nuclear

  • Kim Jong Un

  • Defense