North Korea's growing ICBM threat

Growing North Korean ICBM Threat Will Exacerbate Allied Concerns. In a recent military parade, Pyongyang trotted out the largest number of multiple-warhead ICBMs it has ever displayed at one time and unveiled a new solid-fueled ICBM. North Korea’s steadily expanding long-range missile arsenal risks overwhelming the limited number of ground-based interceptors defending the American homeland. This, in turn, will magnify escalating allied concerns that Washington, if faced with a credible nuclear threat from the regime, may not come to their defense against North Korean aggression.

At a Feb. 8 parade celebrating the 75th anniversary of the founding of the Korean People’s Army, Pyongyang revealed at least 11 Hwasong-17 missiles, the world’s largest road-mobile ICBM. Experts assess that the missile, successfully flight tested in November 2022, can carry three to four nuclear warheads. This number of multiple-warhead missiles, along with North Korea’s other ICBMs, could inundate the 44 ground-based interceptors deployed in Alaska and California. U.S. officials have indicated they would fire multiple, perhaps up to four, interceptors at each incoming warhead.

…North Korea’s ability to hold numerous American cities at risk of attack by hydrogen bombs has aggravated allies’ doubts about U.S. capability, resolve, and willingness to defend their countries. South Koreans have been increasingly vocal in questioning the strength and commitment of the U.S. extended deterrence guarantee, wondering whether the U.S. would be “willing to trade San Francisco for Seoul” or if it would instead abandon its ally.

[ I’m darn certain the spy balloon hasn’t done a dang thing to help change that perception. ~ Beege]