In a statement published by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), the regime claimed that its latest ICBM—believed to be an advanced version of the Hwasong-18—has "proven full-range operational capability," and is now fully deployable for deterrent and retaliatory missions.
“Our strategic forces are now able to deliver a powerful response to any aggression, no matter where it comes from,” North Korean leader Kim Jong-un was quoted as saying. “The United States mainland is fully within our range.”
The Missile Test
Though North Korea has not released video footage, state media shared images purportedly showing the missile launch from a mobile transporter-erector platform. The missile reportedly traveled on a lofted trajectory before falling into waters east of Japan.
South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff tracked the launch and confirmed that it reached a peak altitude of over 6,000 kilometers—characteristic of previous long-range tests—and traveled roughly 1,000 kilometers on a steep flight path. If fired on a standard trajectory, analysts say the missile could reach cities across the continental U.S., including Washington, D.C., and New York.
“This test was likely aimed at validating reentry vehicle survivability and range,” said Dr. Melissa Han, a missile systems expert at the Asia-Pacific Security Institute. “If their claims are true, it would mark a major advancement in North Korea’s ability to credibly threaten the U.S. homeland.”
U.S. and Allied Response
In Washington, the White House condemned the announcement as a reckless escalation. President Biden held a secure video call with the leaders of South Korea and Japan shortly after the report, during which they pledged to strengthen military coordination and extend deterrence measures.
“The United States will defend itself and its allies with all capabilities at our disposal,” said National Security Council spokesperson Thomas Wirth. “North Korea’s threats only deepen its isolation and raise the risk of catastrophic miscalculation.”
The Pentagon has since repositioned missile defense assets in the Pacific, including Aegis-equipped destroyers and additional THAAD batteries in South Korea and Guam. U.S. Strategic Command is also reportedly updating its readiness protocols in response to the evolving threat landscape.
International Alarm
Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida labeled the test “unacceptable” and warned of possible new sanctions. China, North Korea’s most important economic partner, expressed “serious concern” and urged all parties to exercise restraint.
The United Nations Security Council has scheduled an emergency session, although divisions among permanent members are expected to complicate any unified response.
Strategic Implications
North Korea’s announcement comes amid growing evidence that it is refining solid-fuel ICBM technology, which offers faster launch readiness and reduced detectability. Unlike earlier liquid-fueled systems, solid-fuel missiles can be fired with little preparation, complicating preemptive strike or interception strategies.
“If this is a fully mobile, solid-fuel ICBM with a reliable reentry vehicle, it changes the strategic equation significantly,” said Gen. David Raines (ret.), former head of U.S. Pacific Command. “This isn’t just saber-rattling—this is force posturing.”
Conclusion
Whether the claim of full U.S. strike capability is technically accurate or not, it underscores North Korea’s intent to be recognized as a full-fledged nuclear power with a global reach. As Pyongyang advances both its weapons and its rhetoric, the pressure is mounting on world powers to find a way to defuse the crisis—before words turn into action.