North Korea says missile test proves it has capability to launch 'large nuclear warhead'
North Korea is believed to be developing an intercontinental ballistic missile capable of reaching the mainland United States
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.North Korea has claimed to have successfully conducted a missile test which proves it has the capacity to carry a "large scale heavy nuclear warhead".
The mid-to-long range test was supervised by leader Kim Jong Un, reported North Korea's official KCNA news agency.
Kim warned the United States should not misjudge the reality that its mainland is in the North's “sighting range for strike,” said KCNA.
The ballistic missile was reported to have been launched at the highest angle so as not to affect the security of neighbouring countries.
It flew 490 miles (787km), reaching an altitude of 1,312 miles (2,111km), said the agency.
“The test-fire aimed at verifying the tactical and technological specifications of the newly developed ballistic rocket capable of carrying a large-size heavy nuclear warhead,” KCNA said.
North Korea is believed to be developing an intercontinental ballistic missile capable of carrying a nuclear warhead and reaching the mainland United States.
The US military's Pacific Command said the type of missile that was fired was “not consistent with an intercontinental ballistic missile”.
The United Nations Security Council is due to meet on Tuesday to discuss North Korea's latest missile launch, diplomats said – a meeting that was requested by the US and allies South Korea and Japan.
Additional reporting from Reuters
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments