Preparations for North Korea’s mobile missile launcher

Key takeaways

• North Korea has deployed a mobile missile launcher, indicating preparations to launch an intercontinental ballistic missile.
• The potential test could coincide with the US presidential elections on November 5th.
• There are no indications that a missile has been placed on the launch vehicle yet.

North Korea has deployed a mobile missile launcher and may be preparing to launch an intercontinental ballistic missile in November, according to South Korean lawmakers. An ICBM (intercontinental ballistic missile) is an intercontinental ballistic missile designed to fly long distances, often thousands of kilometres, and carry a nuclear warhead or other payload. Depending on their design, ICBMs can reach targets on multiple continents and are often intended for military applications, including strategic strikes. This information comes from briefings with Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) officials.

South Korean MP Lee Seung-kwon revealed that the deployment of the launch vehicle indicates preparations to test an intercontinental ballistic missile and return the warhead to the atmosphere. This potential test may coincide with the US presidential elections on November 5. Rep. Park Sun-won, who also attended the parliamentary hearing, explained that although the launch pad is in place, there is no indication that the rocket has actually been loaded.

North Korea’s motives

South Korean authorities had previously expressed concern that North Korea might try to launch a long-range missile or conduct its seventh nuclear test around the time of the US elections to demonstrate its progress in the field of strategic weapons.

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