North Korea has fired two missiles and a suspected intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), continuing its testing spree this year.

The three missiles were fired from the Sunan area of the North Korean capital of Pyongyang, reported Reuters, quoting South Korea’s Joint Chief of Staff (JCS).

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

The ICBM is believed to be the Hwasong-17 and flew approximately 360km to a maximum altitude of 540km, according to JCS.

The second missile reportedly failed mid-flight and the third one, a short-range ballistic missile (SRBM), travelled 760km to a maximum altitude of 60km.

This is Pyongyang’s 17th known round of weapons test this year, following the firings conducted earlier this month.

North Korea also seemed to have tested a detonation device, reported the news agency, quoting South Korean Deputy National Security Adviser Kim Tae-Hyo.

The latest launches came soon after US President Joe Biden’s trip to Asia.

During the visit, Biden and South Korea President Yoon Suk Yeol agreed to increase the scope and scale of combined military exercises and training.

The leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to deploying more strategic US military assets as necessary.

The missile firings were condemned by South Korea, the US, and Japan.

US Indo-Pacific Command said in a statement: “We are aware of the multiple DPRK ballistic missile launches today and are assessing and consulting closely with our allies and partners.

“While this event does not pose an immediate threat to US personnel or territory, or to our allies, the missile launches highlight the destabilising impact of the DPRK’s illicit weapons programme.

“The US commitment to the defence of the Republic of Korea and Japan remains ironclad.”