North Korea conducted a test of its underwater nuclear weapons system, known as the "Haeil-5-23," as a protest against the joint military drills involving South Korea, the United States, and Japan.
The test was carried out off the east coast, according to state media KCNA. The North Korean defence ministry's think tank executed the test in response to what it described as the "frantic" military exercises by the US, South Korea, and Japan.
The underwater drone system, dubbed "Haeil," was first tested in March 2023 and is designed for sneak attacks in enemy waters, capable of creating a large radioactive wave through an underwater explosion.
The latest test comes on the heels of North Korea's firing of a new intermediate-range, solid-fuel hypersonic missile, which drew condemnation from the US, South Korea, and Japan.
The international community, represented by the three allies' nuclear envoys, expressed concern over Pyongyang's arms trade with Russia and its escalating hostile rhetoric. As tensions rise, the defence ministries of South Korea and Japan issued warnings, emphasizing their preparedness for any provocation and vowing overwhelming responses.
The reported underwater nuclear test further complicates the geopolitical landscape, with North Korea flexing its military capabilities amidst talks of reunification and ongoing sanctions. The international community remains vigilant, closely monitoring developments and advocating for a halt to North Korea's provocative actions.
South Korea and the United States have responded with strong condemnations, reaffirming their commitment to robust joint defense measures and vowing overwhelming retaliation if directly provoked. The US aircraft carrier Carl Vinson remains deployed in the region, sending a clear message of deterrence to Pyongyang.
