PYONGYANG: North Korea has tested a new cluster-bomb warhead mounted on a ballistic missile and an electromagnetic weapon system, according to state media KCNA. The move is seen as part of efforts by Pyongyang to demonstrate its ability to fight a modern war.
The tests were conducted by the Academy of Defence Science and the Missile Administration. They also included carbon-fibre bombs and a mobile short-range anti-aircraft missile system. A general overseeing the tests described the electromagnetic weapon system and carbon-fibre bombs as “special assets” for the military.
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff reported that multiple missiles had been fired over several days. Analysts view the tests as a show of force in advanced conventional weapons.China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi is scheduled to visit North Korea for two days amid rising tensions.
There is also speculation that U.S. President Donald Trump may hold a summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during a visit to China in mid-May. North Korea said it tested the surface-to-surface tactical ballistic missile Hwasongpho-11 Ka, equipped with a cluster-bomb warhead capable of striking targets across an area of up to 7 hectares.
Experts say the electromagnetic weapon system could disable electronic circuits in enemy assets, potentially affecting South Korea’s F-35A stealth fighter jets and Aegis-equipped destroyers.
Carbon-fibre bombs, already developed by advanced militaries such as the United States and China, can disrupt infrastructure like power plants by spreading conductive carbon filaments.
Analysts believe North Korea is focusing on developing low-cost, mass-producible weapons and adopting asymmetric warfare strategies. These include targeting industrial infrastructure and using electronic warfare to disrupt power grids.
Experts warn that such developments could complicate South Korea’s defence strategy and increase security risks on the Korean Peninsula.
