SEOUL, April 23 (AJU PRESS) - North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has praised the accuracy of Pyongyang's short-range ballistic missiles (SRBMs) after guiding a nuclear counterattack drill on Monday. Kim said that the drill was part of efforts to enhance its tactical nuclear strike capabilities, which are being developed as deterrents against hostile activities by South Korea and its allied forces.
According to South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff, North Korea fired multiple SRBMs from a launch site near Pyongyang into the East Sea. The projectiles flew approximately 300 kilometers (186 miles) before hitting the sea surface.
The SRBM, fired by North Korea, known as "KN-25," is specifically developed to target South Korea, with a maximum range of about 400 kilometers (248 miles). North Korea's missile launch took place 20 days after the test launch of a mid-to-long-range hypersonic missile on April 2.
Pyongyang's state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported on Tuesday that Kim expressed satisfaction with the test launch of SRBMs, appreciating that the missiles are as accurate as sniper rifles. He was quoted as saying that Pyongyang-style nuclear strikes are being thoroughly prepared for situations requiring nuclear counteractions.
KCNA stressed that the launch of SRBMs was conducted to send a clear warning to enemies, referring to an ongoing joint military drill by South Korea and the United States which runs until April 26. The drill, which was kicked off on April 12, involves some 100 warplanes. South Korea's defense ministry said that the aerial joint drill, with over 1,400 soldiers, simulates preemptive actions to deter enemy attacks and neutralize enemy forces.
Pyongyang's state media condemned the drill as "hostile activities with an extremely provocative and aggressive nature." KCNA said: "The U.S. is publicizing that those drills are aimed directly at North Korea."