Kim Jong-un watches the tests of new anti-aircraft missiles in North Korea

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un watched the launch of two new anti-aircraft missiles during military exercises. North Korean state media reported that the tests confirmed the "excellent combat capabilities" of the new weapon.

It is reported that the anti-aircraft missiles demonstrated a rapid response to aerial targets, including attack drones and cruise missiles. These tests underscore North Korea's efforts to strengthen its air defense system.

The test report was published the day before US President Donald Trump's summit with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung in Washington. The new North Korean weapons are apparently aimed at demonstrating readiness to counter the growing threats in the region.

Kim Jong-un urged to accelerate the build-up of nuclear weapons amid the exercises of the United States and South Korea

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has said that the country needs to accelerate the development and build-up of its nuclear weapons. This was reported on Tuesday by the state news agency KCNA, stressing that such actions are a response to external threats.

Kim Jong-un called the joint military exercises of the United States and South Korea "a clear manifestation of the desire to provoke a war." His statement came amid the start of large-scale bilateral exercises between Seoul and Washington aimed at developing a rapid response to the growing nuclear and missile threats from the DPRK.

During the exercises, the South Korean and American armed forces are working out improved deterrence scenarios, including coordinating actions in the event of a possible provocation from the north. These maneuvers are sharply criticized by Pyongyang, which traditionally perceives them as a threat to its security and preparations for an invasion.

Kim Jong-un's statement underscores the further tightening of the DPRK's rhetoric and indicates the continuation of the course towards strengthening nuclear capabilities as a central element of national defense.

South Korea turns off the "sound war": dismantling of loudspeakers on the border with the DPRK

 

South Korea is taking a significant step towards reducing tensions on its border with North Korea. Seoul authorities have begun dismantling loudspeakers that have long been used to broadcast propaganda, news, and even pop music deep into the territory of the DPRK. This decision is a vivid symbol of a change of course in the political approach to the North.

Previously, these powerful acoustic systems were a key element of the so-called "sonic war" between the two Korean states. South Korea included them in response to provocations from the north, such as rocket launches or explosions of border facilities. However, the new administration of President Yoon Suk Yeol has decided to abandon this practice, considering it as a factor that only exacerbates hostility. The dismantling of the loudspeakers is a concrete action designed to show Seoul's desire to ease the confrontation and possibly open the door to dialogue, although no official negotiations are planned yet.

It is worth noting that the dismantling takes place against the background of the fact that the DPRK had previously also destroyed its loudspeakers. Thus, both sides formally abandon one of the most high-profile (in the literal sense) tools of psychological warfare. However, experts emphasize that the real reduction in tension depends not so much on the dismantling of the speakers, but on the actions of the DPRK, in particular, on its nuclear and missile programs. Nevertheless, South Korea's move is an important signal of its desire for de—escalation and more stable relations on the Korean peninsula.

North Korea has issued an ultimatum: recognize us as a nuclear power, or remain silent

 

Kim Yo Jong

North Korea has once again loudly declared its ambitions: the United States must officially recognize it as a nuclear—weapon state, otherwise there will be no negotiations. Such a harsh message came not from Kim Jong Un himself, but from his influential sister Kim Yo Jong, who has long been one of the key figures in the regime and often makes harsh statements on behalf of the country's leadership.

According to her, any attempts by Washington to return to negotiations on denuclearization will now be perceived in Pyongyang as a "gross mockery" and a "mockery of reality." This is a direct signal: North Korea already considers itself a nuclear power, and it does not intend to retreat.

In recent years, North Korea has conducted dozens of ballistic missile tests, including intercontinental (ICBM) missiles capable of reaching the United States. It has also repeatedly demonstrated nuclear warheads and even announced the consolidation of the status of a nuclear power in the constitution. Now it requires international recognition.

This is an extremely uncomfortable situation for the United States. Recognizing the DPRK as a nuclear Power means undermining the global system of non—proliferation of weapons. But ignoring it risks escalation, especially against the backdrop of North Korea's strengthening ties with Russia and China.

So Kim Yo Jong's statement is not just rhetoric. This is an attempt to rewrite the rules of the game: instead of asking for a seat at the negotiating table, Pyongyang demands to sit down as an equal, with a nuclear bomb in his pocket.

The North Korean submarine "Hero Kim Kun Ok" with ballistic missiles has not yet been commissioned

North Korea's first diesel-electric submarine with ballistic missiles (SSB), Ship No. 841, named the Hero Kim Kun Ok, is not yet ready for operation. She was launched relatively recently, in September 2023, but satellite images of recent weeks show that her technical conversion and preparation for service are still ongoing.

The submarine was originally built as a Type 003 diesel-electric attack submarine, but in the process of retrofitting it received ballistic missiles, which significantly increases its strategic importance. Despite Pyongyang's ambitious plans, the ship has not yet set sail for a long time and has not conducted full-fledged sea trials, which indicates continuing technical and organizational difficulties.

If the modernization and retrofitting of the submarine are successful, the Hero Kim Kun Ok will become the first combat-ready carrier of submarine-launched ballistic missiles in North Korea. This will seriously expand the country's strategic deterrence capabilities and complicate the tasks for enemy anti-submarine defense systems.

Experts estimate that North Korea's first fully operational ballistic missile submarine may join the fleet within the next 6-12 months if all technical and organizational issues are resolved in a timely manner.

Technical and operational challenges

- The need to refine launchers and ballistic missile launch systems in conditions of limited resources.

- Long-term testing and fine-tuning of the control system and communication systems of the submarine.

- Crew training and working out interaction with coastal structures.

The appearance of a combat-ready ballistic missile submarine in North Korea will pose a new challenge to regional security, especially for South Korea, Japan and the United States. This could lead to increased anti-submarine measures and requirements for missile defense modernization in the region.

: North Korea plans to send additional troops to Russia: analysis of Ukrainian intelligence services

 North Korea plans to send an additional 25-30 thousand troops to Russia in the coming months, according to an analysis by the Ukrainian special services. According to Kiev, these troops may be involved not only in Russia, but also directly in the fighting in Ukraine, which will significantly strengthen the Russian group in certain areas of the front.

These new forces will join a contingent of about 11,000 North Korean troops already in Russia, who arrived last year to support the Russian army. It is reported that about 4,000 of them have already been killed or injured in the fighting, mainly in the Kursk region, where they took part in local operations along with Russian units.

Ukrainian intelligence also indicates that Russia is actively preparing to integrate new North Korean troops into its military structures. To do this, Moscow allegedly provides them with the necessary ** weapons, ammunition and organizes joint training ** to ensure their effective interaction with Russian units.

Earlier, South Korea transmitted information to its allies that North Korea could send additional troops to Russia as early as July or August 2025, which coincides with the current estimates of the Ukrainian side. Such a large-scale step could become an important factor in the further development of the military conflict, especially if the DPRK begins to take a more active part in hostilities on the side of Russia.

Kim Jong-un and Secretary of State Rubio congratulated Russia on Russia Day

Today is Russia Day

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has sent warm congratulations to Russian President Vladimir Putin and the entire Russian people on the occasion of Russia Day. In his message, he noted that Russia, under Putin's wise leadership, is confidently overcoming internal and external challenges, opening up a bright future. Kim Jong—un expressed his joy at the successes of fraternal Russia and wished Putin good health and the Russian people eternal prosperity and well-being.

At the same time, US Secretary of State Rubio also posted congratulations on Russia Day on behalf of the American people. He emphasized the commitment of the United States to support the Russian people in their quest for a brighter future and expressed readiness to work constructively with Russia to achieve lasting peace between Russia and Ukraine. Rubio expressed hope that peace will contribute to strengthening mutually beneficial relations between the two countries.

Satellite images have revealed the movement of a damaged North Korean warship to a dry dock near the border with Russia

Satellite images taken on Sunday by Maxar Technologies showed that the 5,000-ton North Korean destroyer, which does not yet have an official name, was moved to a dry dock in the port of Rajin. This port is located in the Rason Special Economic Zone in northeastern North Korea, near its small border with Russia.

Moving the ship to a dry dock indicates that repair or restoration work has been carried out after damage has been sustained. Rajin is an important maritime hub and strategic port, which allows North Korea to maintain its naval forces in the region.

This destroyer belongs to the large warships of the DPRK Navy and plays a key role in ensuring maritime security and control over adjacent waters. Its repair near the Russian border may be of strategic importance, given the geopolitical situation in the region.

Details about the nature of the damage and the reasons for the ship's movement have not yet been disclosed, but monitoring North Korea's actions in the area remains important for assessing the country's military potential.

Partially submerged North Korean frigate rediscovered in satellite image

Recently released satellite images have again recorded the appearance of a partially submerged North Korean frigate. The vessel, which was previously in an inclined position, is now apparently stabilized and standing vertically on the water. However, the exact extent of the damage to the frigate remains unknown.

Specialists continue to study the images in order to assess the condition of the ship and determine possible methods of moving it for repairs. The question of how North Korea plans to transport the damaged frigate to the repair docks remains unanswered.

The appearance of the vessel in a more stable position may indicate emergency repair work or attempts to prevent further damage. However, given the limited information, it remains unclear how severe the damage is and how quickly the frigate will be able to return to service.

New satellite images show unusual objects near North Korea's damaged warship

Recent satellite images have revealed that North Korea has placed several objects resembling balloons next to the damaged 5,000-ton warship. The ship is lying on its side and partially submerged after a failed launch last week.

Although the exact purpose of these aerial objects remains unknown, experts suggest that they can be used for several purposes. Firstly, such balls can help bring the ship back to an upright position, providing additional buoyancy and support. Secondly, they can serve as a means of disguise, protecting the damaged ship from surveillance by drones and satellites, thereby hiding the extent of the damage.

This incident highlights the difficulties faced by North Korea in maintaining its navy, and also demonstrates the unconventional methods used to solve emerging problems.

Further observation and analysis of satellite data will help to better understand the situation and assess the condition of the North Korean warship.

North Korean Air Force Receives Modern Air-to-Air Missiles with Active Radar Guidance

 

Fighter Fleet Revolution: North Korean Air Force receives first modern air-to-air missiles

The North Korean leadership has unveiled a new air-to-air missile. For the first time, the Korean People's Army has received air-to-air missiles with active radar guidance, which were installed on a MiG-29 squadron and launched into a test flight. The MiG-29s, which were purchased from the Soviet Union in the 1980s and subsequently produced under license domestically in the 1990s, were previously equipped only with relatively obsolete semi-active R-27 guided missiles for aerial combat beyond visual visibility. Although the Cold War-era P-27 variants were cutting-edge when they were introduced in the early 1980s, they are considered several generations behind the most effective modern missiles such as the Chinese PL-15 or the American AIM-260. North Korea's new class of air-to-air missiles appears to benefit from active radar guidance and closely resembles modern classes of missiles in service abroad, such as the PL-15. The missile class was first introduced at the National Defense Development Exhibition Self Defense 2021 in October 2021 and could potentially be integrated into the country's MiG-23ML and MiG-21bis fighters along with its MiG-29. The complexity of North Korea's surface-to-air missile classes, demonstrated by tests of systems such as Pyongae-6 provides an important indication that many of the technologies needed for the advanced class of long-range air-to-air missiles are already in mature stages.

North Korea conducted simulated nuclear strike exercises in response to an external threat

The Korean People's Army has launched a series of large-scale exercises aimed at practicing actions on the use of nuclear weapons in response to military aggression against the country. During the maneuvers, KN-23 short-range ballistic missiles were used, which were used to simulate nuclear strikes on targets located at a distance of up to 800 kilometers.

The KN-23 missile system, designed specifically to defeat tactical and operational targets, is capable of carrying both conventional and nuclear warheads. According to analysts, it can also potentially be equipped with chemical weapons delivery systems, which makes it a versatile and dangerous element of the DPRK's strategic forces.

In addition to ballistic missiles, 600-mm multiple launch rocket systems KN-25 took part in the exercises, providing high-density fire support and capable of delivering massive strikes against front-line targets.

Special attention was paid to the testing of a new system called  "nuclear trigger" — the mechanism of management and control of North Korea's nuclear arsenal. It is assumed that this system ensures the rapid and coordinated deployment of nuclear forces in the event of a threat from external adversaries.

Such actions by the DPRK demonstrate the growing technological maturity of its military program and efforts to consolidate the status of a nuclear power, despite international sanctions and pressure.

North Korea introduces an improved version of the Cheonma-2 tank

 

Kim Jong-un inspects an improved version of the Cheonma-2 tank

In May 2025, North Korea demonstrated a new version of its Cheonma-2 main battle tank, which features significant improvements in protection systems, turret design, and optical equipment. These changes underscore Pyongyang's desire to modernize its armed forces and increase the combat capability of its tank units.

Key Cheonma-2 Improvements

The new version of the tank demonstrates a number of important updates that make it more effective on the battlefield.:

1. Advanced protection systems: The tank has received reinforced armor and possibly dynamic protection, which significantly increases its survivability in a collision with modern anti-tank weapons. 

2. Upgraded Turret Design: The new turret shape not only improves aerodynamics, but also increases crew protection. It is also equipped with additional modules to accommodate the equipment.

3. Updated optics and sighting systems: The installation of modern optical and thermal imaging systems allows the crew to more effectively detect targets in any conditions, including at night.

These improvements build on the experience of the previous version of Cheonma-2, introduced in 2020, which has already shown significant progress in firepower and protection.

Comparison with the original 2020 version

The original version of Cheonma-2, introduced in 2020, was focused on increasing firepower and survivability. She received a more powerful cannon capable of hitting modern enemy tanks, as well as improved active defense systems. However, the new version of 2025 goes even further, offering comprehensive solutions to adapt to modern combat conditions.

Significance for the DPRK Armed Forces

The Cheonma-2 remains a key element of North Korea's tank fleet. Its modernization shows that Pyongyang continues to invest in the development of its ground forces, despite economic sanctions and international pressure. Improving the characteristics of the tank is aimed at increasing its competitiveness in comparison with its South Korean and American counterparts.

The improved Cheonma-2 can be used in both defensive and offensive operations. Due to its improved performance, it is able to effectively counter modern threats, including high-precision anti-tank missiles and aircraft. This makes it an important component of North Korea's deterrence strategy.

Unveiled in May 2025, the Cheonma-2 tank version demonstrates North Korea's serious steps to modernize its armed forces. Improvements in security systems, tower construction, and optics underscore Pyongyang's desire to maintain its military might. However, it also raises questions about stability in the region and the risks of further escalation of tensions.

North Korea launches mass production of powerful KN-25 missile system

 

North Korean leader Kim Jong- un inspects the production line of the 600- mm multiple launch rocket system KN-25

On May 3, 2025, photos appeared on social media confirming the start of mass production of one of the world's most powerful rocket launchers, the KN-25. This move marks a significant strengthening of the DPRK's long-range precision artillery forces and underscores Pyongyang's desire to strengthen its deep-impact capabilities. Equipped with 600mm guided missiles, the KN-25 is capable of hitting targets up to 380 km away, making it a unique hybrid of traditional multiple launch rocket systems and tactical ballistic missiles.

The KN-25 is an advanced development by North Korean military engineers. The main features of the system include:

- Powerful 600mm Rockets: These guided munitions have high accuracy and destructive power.

- Firing range: The maximum range is 380 km, which allows you to hit strategically important targets in South Korea and even beyond.

- Hybrid design: The KN-25 combines features of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS) and ballistic missiles, making it a difficult target for missile defense.

This combination of characteristics makes the KN-25 a serious threat to the enemy, especially amid tensions on the Korean peninsula.

The mass production of the KN-25 indicates that North Korea is actively increasing its military capabilities. The deployment of this system in large numbers is aimed at achieving several strategic goals.:

1. Enhanced Deep Strike capabilities: The KN-25 allows Pyongyang to hit key enemy targets at a considerable distance from the border.

2. Countering missile defense systems: The KN-25 missiles are designed to reduce the effectiveness of South Korean and American missile defense systems.

3. Psychological pressure: The presence of powerful weapons of this class increases pressure on the international community and demonstrates the DPRK's determination to defend its interests.

The start of mass production of the KN-25 has caused concern among both South Korea and the United States. Experts note that this system significantly enhances the military potential of the DPRK and may become a factor of destabilization in the region. In this regard, increased sanctions pressure on Pyongyang is expected, as well as the modernization of the allies' defense systems.

South Korea and the United States can accelerate the development of new missile defense technologies to neutralize the threat from the KN-25. This could lead to a new round of the arms race on the Korean peninsula.

The introduction of the KN-25 into the armed forces of the DPRK demonstrates that the country continues to invest in the development of its military technologies. Given the current geopolitical situation, it can be expected that Pyongyang will continue to improve its missile systems, including increasing their range and accuracy.

However, it also raises questions about stability in the region and the risks of conflict escalation. 

The mass production of the KN-25 missile system underscores North Korea's desire to strengthen its military capabilities and challenge the dominance of South Korean and American missile defense systems. This event has far-reaching consequences for the security of the region. The future of the Korean peninsula largely depends on how the countries involved in the conflict will respond to such steps by Pyongyang.

NATO intelligence is exploring the possibility of North Korean soldiers participating in the conflict in Ukraine

 

Soldiers of the DPRK Armed Forces in the Kursk region

After Russia's official recognition of the presence of North Korean military personnel in the Kursk region, the intelligence services of the United States and NATO countries have stepped up data collection on the potential expansion of their role. The main question that Western analysts are currently facing is whether North Korean soldiers will participate in combat operations not only near the Russian borders, but also on the territory of Ukraine.

Russia recently confirmed the participation of North Korean military personnel in operations near Kursk. According to Moscow, these forces were sent to help ensure the security of the region and repel Ukrainian attacks. However, Western intelligence services believe that this may be only part of a larger plan to involve North Korean troops in the conflict.

NATO intelligence is considering several scenarios for the use of North Korean soldiers. The first involves their limited participation in defensive operations in Russia. The second, more alarming, includes the possibility of their transfer to the territory of Ukraine to reinforce Russian troops. This could be an attempt to compensate for the loss of personnel and increase the effectiveness of offensive operations.

Experts note that the DPRK has significant experience in training and conducting combat operations, which makes its military personnel a valuable asset for Russia. However, such a step also increases the risk of conflict escalation, especially given the international reaction to the involvement of third countries.

Reports of North Korea's possible involvement in the conflict have raised concerns among NATO countries and their allies. The United States and the European Union have already stated that any expansion of the geography of North Korean troops' participation would be considered a serious provocation.

In addition, North Korea's involvement casts doubt on the effectiveness of diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict.

The intelligence services are also analyzing the technical and logistical capabilities of the DPRK to maintain its troops outside the country. The transfer of military personnel and equipment over long distances requires significant resources that can be provided by Russia. However, the success of such cooperation remains questionable due to supply chain constraints and coordination.

North Korea will send troops to Russia in accordance with the agreement

 "Based on the analysis and assessment of the current situation, Comrade Kim Jong-un came to the conclusion that it falls under the scope of Article 4 of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement between the DPRK and the Russian Federation, and decided to send our armed forces to participate in hostilities, notifying the Russian side."

North Korea has officially announced the dispatch of troops to Russia in accordance with the strategic partnership agreement, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reports.

RIA Novosti also reports that, according to Kim Jong-un, a "monument of military glory" will soon be erected in the capital of the DPRK to honor the memory of "fallen fighters" as a sign of "eternal memory from the Motherland and the people."

The DPRK will continue to support the sacred cause of the Russian army and people, and will always remain committed to any actions based on the spirit of the interstate agreement with Russia, KCNA writes.

North Korea's new frigate Choi Hyon: the power of ballistic missiles at sea

 

View of the main melee system (CIWS) closer to the rear of the ship's superstructure

North Korea has officially unveiled its new Choi Hyon air combat frigate, causing a wide response in military circles. This ship, equipped with 74 vertical launchers, is capable of launching cruise and ballistic missiles, as well as anti-aircraft missile systems. The new frigate has become a symbol of the DPRK's ambitions in the field of naval construction and demonstrates significant progress in the development of the country's offensive and defensive capabilities.

The Choi Hyon frigate has the tail number 51, which may be a reference to the DDG-51 Arleigh Burke class destroyers of the US Navy. Although there are some external similarities between the ships, Choi Hyon differs significantly in its characteristics and tasks. According to preliminary data, the ship's displacement is about 5,000 tons, but the exact parameters remain in question.

A powerful deck gun, presumably 127 mm caliber, is mounted on the bow of the ship, designed to destroy both surface and ground targets. Closer to the rear of the superstructure, close combat systems (CIWS) are visible, which provide protection from enemy missiles and aircraft. However, Choi Hyon's main feature is its vertical launchers, which make the ship a versatile combat platform.

The main focus is on the number and variety of weapons on board the Choi Hyon. 74 vertical launchers allow the ship to carry various types of missiles, including:

- Ballistic missiles: capable of hitting targets at long range.

- Cruise missiles: designed for precision strikes against land and sea targets.

- Anti-aircraft missile systems: providing air defense of the ship and surrounding areas.

Such equipment makes Choi Hyon one of the most powerful ships of its class, capable of performing a wide range of tasks — from air defense to striking strategic targets.

Choi Hyon's appearance underscores North Korea's desire to strengthen its naval forces and demonstrate technological independence. This ship can be used to increase pressure on neighboring countries, as well as to protect strategically important waters. Experts note that the presence of ballistic missiles on a ship of this size is an unprecedented step that could change the balance of power in the region.

Although Choi Hyon looks impressive on paper, the question remains about the ship's actual effectiveness in modern naval combat. Its success will depend on the level of integration of control systems, radars and communications equipment, as well as on the training of the crew. In addition, the international community is closely monitoring the development of the DPRK's naval programs, fearing further destabilization of the region.

The Choi Hyon frigate has become a symbol of North Korea's military ambitions, demonstrating significant progress in the creation of multi-purpose warships. Equipped with advanced weapons systems, it can become an important element of the DPRK's strategy to strengthen its position in the region. However, its real impact on the balance of power will become clear only after testing and possible use in real operations.

North Korean soldiers played a key role in liberating the Kursk region from Ukrainian forces

 

Soldiers from the DPRK in the Kursk region

On April 26, Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov reported to Russian President Vladimir Putin on significant progress during the military operation in the Kursk region. According to him, the soldiers from the DPRK made an important contribution to the successful counteroffensive of the Russian troops, which made it possible to dislodge the Ukrainian occupiers from the region.

Valery Gerasimov stressed that the participation of soldiers from the DPRK was a crucial factor in regaining control over the territory of the Kursk region. Their tactical training and experience proved to be extremely useful in conditions of intense combat. The Ukrainian forces, which previously held a number of settlements, were forced to retreat after a series of coordinated attacks.

The participation of North Korean soldiers in the Russian-Ukrainian conflict has become one of the most discussed topics in recent weeks. Although no official statements have yet been received from representatives of the DPRK, experts note that this cooperation may be part of a broader strategy to strengthen the military-political alliance between Moscow and Pyongyang. 

Kiev has already expressed concern about the involvement of foreign fighters on the Russian side. Ukrainian officials called North Korea's actions a violation of international law and called on the international community to increase pressure on Pyongyang. International analysts also warn that an escalation of the conflict involving new participants could lead to further destabilization of the situation in the region.

The success in the Kursk region demonstrates the ability of the Russian army to effectively coordinate efforts with its allies. It also confirms that Moscow continues to expand the circle of its partners to achieve its strategic goals. The participation of soldiers from the DPRK may set a precedent for attracting additional support from other countries.

The current situation shows that the conflict is becoming more and more international in nature. The involvement of foreign forces on both sides of the conflict increases the risk of a large-scale escalation. The international community is calling for de-escalation and the resumption of negotiations, but so far the prospects for a peaceful settlement remain vague.

The United States has assigned the designation "KN-35" to North Korea's newest short-range missile

The United States has officially assigned the designation "KN-35" to the latest short-range ballistic missile (CRBM) developed by North Korea. This information was confirmed by South Korean military sources and caused a wide response in the international community. The KN-35 becomes the first missile in this category introduced by the DPRK since the introduction of the KN-23, KN-24 and KN-25 series.

At the moment, the exact characteristics of the new missile remain classified, but experts suggest that the KN-35 may be an improved version of previously developed models. The KN-23, KN-24 and KN-25 family of missiles have already proven themselves to be highly accurate systems with the ability to maneuver on the flight path, which makes it difficult for anti-missile systems to intercept them.

The KN-35 is likely to be equipped with improved guidance technology, increased range, and increased warhead power. This makes it an even more formidable tool in the DPRK's arsenal.

The designation "KN-35" highlights the United States' focus on the development of North Korea's military technology. According to analysts, this missile may become part of the DPRK's strategy to strengthen its defensive and offensive power in the region. Its appearance increases tensions on the Korean peninsula and poses new challenges to the missile defense systems of South Korea, Japan and the United States.

 South Korea and the United States are actively strengthening their intelligence and defense cooperation to counter potential threats. At the same time, the United Nations and other international organizations are calling on the DPRK to stop testing ballistic missiles that violate Security Council resolutions.

The development of the KN-35 demonstrates the DPRK's ability to innovate technologically, despite economic sanctions and isolation. It also shows that the country continues to invest significant resources in the development of its armed forces, especially in the field of ballistic technology.

The appearance of the KN-35 raises new questions about the future of security in the Asia-Pacific region. The strengthening of the DPRK's military potential may provoke an arms race, which will create additional risks to stability in the region. Experts believe that the international community should take measures to de-escalate tensions and resume dialogue with Pyongyang.

South Korea requests additional military support from the United States after redeploying Patriot batteries

 South Korea has officially requested additional military support from the United States following the partial redeployment of Patriot missile defense batteries initially stationed on the Korean peninsula to the Middle East. This step was taken in response to the increased threat from North Korea and the need to strengthen defense in the region.

In March 2025, the United States and South Korea agreed to temporarily relocate part of the Patriot batteries to the Middle East. This decision was made in connection with the need to strengthen the US military presence in the region, where the situation with the Yemeni Houthis has worsened. The redeployment was the first known case of the transfer of US forces from South Korea to the Middle East.

The redeployment of Patriot batteries has raised concerns in South Korea, as it has weakened the country's missile defenses. With North Korea's nuclear buildup and threats from Pyongyang, Seoul urgently needs to strengthen its defenses. South Korea has requested additional military support from the United States to compensate for the temporary absence of Patriot batteries and ensure security on the Korean peninsula.

The United States is considering South Korea's request and is likely to provide additional military assistance. Washington has confirmed that it will continue to support combat-ready and deadly forces on the Korean peninsula, ready to respond to any unforeseen situation. This underscores the importance of the strategic partnership between the two countries in the face of the growing threat from the DPRK.

The redeployment of Patriot batteries and South Korea's subsequent request for additional military support underscore the importance of cooperation between Seoul and Washington in ensuring security in the region. The United States is likely to satisfy its ally's request in order to maintain stability on the Korean peninsula and deter aggression from North Korea.

Patriot Batteries in South Korea