North Korea showcased its military advancements on March 15, 2024, during a large-scale parade in Pyongyang, marking the 80th anniversary of the ruling Workers’ Party. The event featured the unveiling of a new intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), the Hwasong-20, which North Korean leader Kim Jong-un claims is the “most powerful nuclear strategic weapons system” in the nation’s arsenal.
The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that the Hwasong-20 has not yet been tested but represents a significant leap in North Korea’s long-range nuclear delivery capabilities. Experts suggest this missile is designed to target the continental United States and other regional rivals, enhancing North Korea’s deterrent posture. Ankit Panda, an expert at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, indicated that the missile could be tested by the end of the year, highlighting its potential to carry multiple warheads. He stated, “Multiple warheads will increase stresses on existing US missile defence systems and augment what Kim sees as necessary to achieve meaningful deterrence effects against Washington.”
The parade also saw the display of various shorter-range ballistic and cruise missiles, which North Korea has claimed could deliver nuclear strikes against South Korea. The event was attended by several foreign dignitaries, including Chinese Premier Li Qiang, Dmitry Medvedev, the former president of Russia, and To Lam, the head of Vietnam’s Communist Party. Their presence underscores an evolving diplomatic landscape for North Korea as it seeks to strengthen ties with allies amid international scrutiny.
In his address during the parade, Kim emphasized the need for his military to continuously evolve, stating that it “must continue to evolve into an invincible force that eliminates all threats,” according to KCNA reports. This rhetoric aligns with North Korea’s ongoing commitment to modernizing its military capabilities.
Following the parade, Kim met with Medvedev, discussing the strong relationship between North Korea and Russia. Medvedev referenced the sacrifices of North Korean soldiers during conflicts in Kursk, reinforcing the notion of mutual support between the two nations. Kim expressed his desire to deepen cooperation with Russia, indicating a focus on achieving common goals and enhancing military exchanges.
As North Korea continues to advance its military technology and diplomatic relations, the international community remains watchful of the implications these developments may have on regional stability and global security.
