North Korean Leader Supervises Solid-Fuel Engine Test for ICBM

(MENAFN) North Korean leader Kim Jong Un personally supervised a high-thrust solid-fuel engine test designed for intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) that incorporates composite carbon fiber materials, according to North Korean media on Tuesday.

The ground jet test was carried out the previous day by the Missile Administration in collaboration with a chemical materials research center, media reported.

This announcement comes just a week after Kim's visit to the research facility responsible for the engine's development. During the visit, he unveiled the next-generation Hwasong-20 ICBM, currently in progress, stating it would employ the newly tested engine.

Kim underscored the engine’s importance, stating it "heralds a significant change in expanding and strengthening the nuclear strategic forces" of North Korea. He also described the breakthrough as "a success assuming the most strategic nature in the recent modernization of defense technology."

According to media, this marks the ninth engine test and "the last one" in the development cycle, with the engine’s maximum thrust recorded at 1,971 kilonewtons.

North Korea's previous ICBM test occurred on Oct. 31, 2024, featuring the solid-fuel Hwasong-19, which was hailed at the time as "an ICBM of ultimate version."

The introduction of the Hwasong-20 signifies the latest advancement in North Korea’s missile arsenal, with the completion of its new engine expected to accelerate its deployment.

Additionally, media noted that North Korea has approved a decree to award state commendations to the president of the chemical materials academy and the director overseeing solid-fuel engine development within the Missile Administration.

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