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Seoul, South Korea - In a significant development in ballistic technology, South Korea has recently conducted successful test launches of the Hyunmoo-IV-1 and Hyunmoo-V strategic missiles, as confirmed by the South Korean Minister of National Defense, Shin Won-sik. These missiles, also known as the 'High Power Missile' (HPM), mark a revolutionary step in the nation's defense capabilities.
Hyunmoo-V: The 'Monster Missile' Redefining Warfare
Dubbed the 'monster missile', the Hyunmoo-V, weighing a colossal 36 tons, has garnered international attention due to its extraordinary firepower, exceeding 11 tons. This missile is not only capable of neutralizing underground facilities but also boasts a design that allows it to detonate above these targets, completely burying them. The cold-launch mechanism, necessitated by its powerful solid propellant, further underscores its advanced engineering.
Unprecedented Precision and Power
The term 'Extreme Precision, High Power Missile' aptly describes the Hyunmoo-V, distancing it from conventional IRBM or ICBM classifications. Its unique 'Lofted trajectory' enables it to travel through the exosphere, enhancing penetration capabilities. The missile's potential to carry one of the world's largest warheads, up to 9 tons, mimics the effects of nuclear weapons without crossing the nuclear threshold.
South Korea's Strategic Defense Leap
With a stockpile of over 20 Hyunmoo-V missiles and ongoing mass production, South Korea is significantly advancing its military prowess. The missile's speed, descending at ten times the speed of sound, and its speculated range of up to 3,000 kilometers, place it alongside formidable global missile systems like the US Minuteman 3 ICBM.
The 3K Defense System: A Comprehensive Shield
South Korea's commitment to defense innovation is further exemplified by the 3K Defense System, scheduled for establishment in 2024. This system integrates the 'Kill Chain' component, Korea Air and Missile Defense (KAMD), and Korea Massive Punishment and Retaliation plan (KMPR). These platforms collectively aim to preempt and counter North Korean nuclear launches and counterattack missiles, providing a multi-layered defense approach.
Global Implications and Regional Stability
This development significantly alters the strategic balance in the Korean Peninsula and beyond. While the Hyunmoo-V has not been proven in combat, unlike North Korea's Hwasong-11/KN-23, its capabilities represent a substantial deterrent. The missile's potential for precision and massive retaliation could reshape defense strategies in the region.
South Korea's latest missile technology, particularly the Hyunmoo-V, represents a quantum leap in ballistic capabilities. As the nation continues to enhance its defense systems, including hypersonic cruise vehicles and the Hypersonic Glide Vehicle (HGV), the global community watches closely. This advancement not only underscores South Korea's technological prowess but also its strategic foresight in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.
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