New Delhi: A fierce and devastating conflict is currently unfolding between the U.S., Israel, and Iran, with no apparent diplomatic solution or middle ground in sight. The repercussions of this war have begun to impact other nations as well. Amidst this intense warfare, North Korea has sent a significant message to the global community. It conducted a “firepower strike” drill utilising highly precise 600-millimetre “multiple rocket launchers.
North Korea’s state-run media agency, the *Korean Central News Agency* (KCNA), reported that a long-range artillery sub-unit of the *Korean People’s Army* (KPA) carried out a “firepower strike” exercise in the western region of the country. This North Korean drill involved the participation of 12 highly precise 600 mm-calibre multiple rocket launchers and two artillery companies. The country’s Supreme Leader, Kim Jong Un, and his daughter, Ju-ae, also attended the exercise, demonstrating their proficiency.
More from vipin kumar
North Korea Tests Cruise Missile
It is worth noting that on March 14, Pyongyang fired approximately 10 unidentified ballistic missiles into the sea; additionally, on March 11, North Korea conducted another cruise missile test from the destroyer *Choe Hyon*.
Meanwhile, on March 14, the Japan Coast Guard reported that it had detected a ballistic missile launch. The missile reportedly landed in the sea outside Japan’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). In a statement, the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command acknowledged the missile launches and stated that it is consulting closely with its allies and partners.
Military Drills to Continue Until March 19
These missile tests are being interpreted in various ways. Furthermore, North Korea has taken this step at a time when South Korea and the United States are conducting joint military exercises. These military exercises began on March 9 and are scheduled to continue until March 19.
These exercises have been named ‘Freedom Shield.’ Both nations assert that these joint drills are entirely defensive in nature, aimed at testing their readiness against military threats emanating from North Korea.
Additionally, the combined forces of the United States and South Korea, under the supervision of their ‘Joint Forces Commander,’ conducted river-crossing drills involving tanks and armoured combat vehicles. The U.S. military maintains a presence in South Korea comprising approximately 28,500 troops and squadrons of combat aircraft.