Kim Jong Un observed a test of a high-thrust, solid-fuel engine designed for long-range missiles capable of reaching the U.S. mainland, according to North Korean state media.
The test, which took place recently but without a confirmed location or date, featured an upgraded engine with a reported thrust of 2,500 kilotons-marking an increase from previous tests.
This development is seen as part of North Korea’s broader effort to enhance its strategic military capabilities, including placing multiple warheads on a single missile to overwhelm U.S. defenses.
Kim described the engine advancement as key to elevating North Korea’s “strategic military muscle” to the highest level.
The move follows Pyongyang’s ongoing five-year military buildup focused on enhancing nuclear deterrence and intercontinental strike capacity.
Solid-fuel propulsion allows faster launch readiness compared to older liquid-fueled systems, complicating early detection.
Experts remain divided on whether North Korea has fully mastered reentry technology necessary for delivering warheads across the Pacific.
