North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervised a test of a high-thrust solid-fuel engine, describing it as a key advancement in strengthening the country’s strategic military capabilities, according to state media reports released Sunday.
The development signals Pyongyang’s continued efforts to expand and modernize its missile arsenal, particularly systems believed capable of reaching the United States mainland.
The report by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) follows recent remarks by Kim during a parliamentary address, where he vowed to solidify North Korea’s position as a nuclear power.
In that speech, he also accused the United States of engaging in global “state terrorism and aggression,” an apparent reference to tensions surrounding Iran.
KCNA reported that Kim observed the ground jet test of a newly upgraded engine constructed with composite carbon fiber materials.
The engine reportedly achieved a maximum thrust of 2,500 kilotons, an increase from approximately 1,971 kilotons recorded during a similar solid-fuel engine test conducted in September.
Analysts suggest that efforts to enhance engine power may be linked to ambitions of equipping missiles with multiple warheads, a move aimed at improving their ability to penetrate U.S. defense systems.
Details regarding the timing and location of the test were not disclosed by KCNA.
According to the report, the test forms part of North Korea’s ongoing five-year military development plan, which prioritizes the advancement of “strategic strike means.” This terminology is widely interpreted as referring to nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) designed to target the continental United States.
KCNA quoted Kim as saying the latest test carries “great significance in putting the country’s strategic military muscle on the highest level.”
In recent years, North Korea has conducted multiple ICBM launches, demonstrating ranges that could potentially reach the U.S. mainland.
The country has increasingly focused on solid-fuel missiles, which are more difficult to detect before launch compared to older liquid-fuel systems that require pre-launch fueling and have limited readiness time.
While some international experts argue that North Korea still faces technical challenges—such as ensuring warheads can withstand the extreme conditions of atmospheric reentry—others contend that the country’s long-running nuclear and missile programs may have already addressed such obstacles.
Pyongyang has accelerated its nuclear development efforts since diplomatic negotiations between Kim and former U.S. President Donald Trump broke down in 2019. During a Workers’ Party congress held in February, Kim indicated openness to renewed dialogue with Trump but insisted that Washington abandon its demand for North Korea’s nuclear disarmament as a prerequisite for talks.
