NORTH KOREA'S NEW BALLISTIC MISSILE

Context:

On February 27, 2022, North Korea allegedly launched a ballistic missile. It was the first test since a record number of launches by a nuclear-armed country in January 2022.

Key Points:

• The missile flew to a height of around 390 miles and a range of 190 miles during the fire.
• According to Japan, this launch is part of a series of "frequent launches" in January 2022. 
• It is believed that North Korea poses a threat to Japan's and the international community's security.

A recent test by North Korea's:

On January 30, North Korea conducted its most recent test, shooting a Hwasong-12 intermediate-range ballistic missile. This missile has the capability of reaching Guam, a US territory.

Why this Nuclear Weapons Program?

• North Korea is developing nuclear weapons for military use.
• By early 2020, it will have a nuclear arsenal of 30 to 40 warheads and enough fissile material to produce six to seven nuclear weapons every year.
• In addition, the country has a large arsenal of biological and chemical weapons.
• North Korea t withdrew from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) in 2003.
• It has been conducting six nuclear tests since 2006, prompting the application of sanctions.
• North Korea unveiled a large intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) at a military parade commemorating Korea's 75th anniversary of October 10, 2020.

According to reports, it's one of the world's largest road-mobile ballistic missiles.