North Korea conducted its first missile test in three months, according to media reports. In July, Pyongyang tested a cruise missile near the Sea of Japan, according to the Republic of Korea. The exact name of the ammunition was not disclosed, but it was said to have fallen to a distance of about 100 kilometres. According to a US source, the test was carried out to improve the missile's performance. North Korea had last conducted a firing test around the Sea of Japan in April.
A new statement has also come from the North, where nuclear deterrence and increased tensions with the Republic of Korea are on the agenda. “Thanks to our reliable and effective self-defensive nuclear deterrent, there will no longer be war, and our country’s safety and future will be firmly guaranteed forever.” North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said.
211216-N-QI061-1222 NAVAL STATION MAYPORT, Fla. (December 16, 2021) An MQ-4C Triton Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS), assigned to Unmanned Patrol Squadron 19 (VUP-19), sits on the flight line at Naval Station Mayport, Florida, Dec. 16, 2021. VUP-19, the Navy’s first Triton squadron, will continue to maintain and operate the aircraft off the East Coast to further develop the concept of operations and refine tactics, techniques, and procedures. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nathan T. Beard/ Released)