Source: Indian Express

Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.

Context:

• Recently North Korea said it successfully tested a new tactical ballistic missile capable of carrying a “super-large warhead,” according to state news agency KCNA.
• Pyongyang said the test, named Hwasongpho-11 Da-4.5, was conducted with a simulated heavy warhead to verify flight stability and accuracy. The report did not elaborate on the nature of the simulated warhead.

About Hwasongpho-11 Da-4.5

• The Hwasongpho-11, or Hwasong-11, is a series of short-range ballistic missiles (SRBM) developed by the North Korea that are otherwise known as KN-23 and KN-24. The first of the two missiles launched by the North Korea appeared to be a KN-23 that flew about 600 km (373 miles).
• The KN-23 is the missile that North Korea has supplied to Russia and was used in the war against Ukraine, according to Ukrainian authorities who examined debris from missiles launched by Russia since December.

Technical Specifications:

• Range and Payload: The Hwasongpho-11 Da-4.5 has an estimated range that allows it to reach potential targets far beyond North Korea’s borders. The range may be similar to other medium to intermediate-range ballistic missiles.
• Accuracy and Guidance: The missile is believed to employ advanced guidance systems to enhance its targeting accuracy.
• Propulsion: Initially, the propulsion systems of North Korean missiles were based on liquid fuel, but recent advancements suggest a move towards solid-fuel technology, which provides quicker launch readiness and improved storage stability.

Strategic Implications

• Deterrence and Defense: For North Korea, the development of such missiles is a key component of its strategy to deter perceived threats from adversaries. By enhancing its missile capabilities, North Korea aims to strengthen its defense posture.
• Regional Security Dynamics: The presence of the Hwasongpho-11 Da-4.5 affects the security calculations of neighboring countries, particularly South Korea and Japan. These nations may feel compelled to enhance their own missile defense systems.
• Global Non-Proliferation Efforts: The ongoing development of ballistic missile technology in North Korea poses challenges to global non-proliferation efforts.
  • It necessitates a response from international bodies such as the United Nations to address the potential risks.

ICBM

An intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) is a ballistic missile with a range greater than 5,500 kilometers primarily designed for nuclear weapons delivery. They differ from other forms of ballistic missiles by their much greater range and payload capacity. The first ICBMs were deployed by the Soviet Union in 1958; the United States followed the next year and China some 20 years later.

Source:

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-global/north-korea-missile-warhead-9427754/

READ ABOUT THE  HWASONG-18- https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/hwasong-18

READ ABOUT THE BASICS OF MISSILES: https://www.iasgyan.in/blogs/the-basics-of-missiles

PRACTICE QUESTION Consider the following statements. Hwasongpho-11 Da-4.5 is a type of hypersonic cruise missile developed by North Korea. It is powered by a ramjet engine, which lacks turbines unlike turbojet engines. Hwasongpho-11 Da-4.5 is equipped with a strategic warhead containing radioactive materials capable of causing significant radioactivity upon detonation. Which of the above statements is/are incorrect? (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) None of the above. Correct Answer: (d) None of the above.