World News
State media says North Korea test-fired two submarine-launched cruise missiles
State media said the launches posed no threat to neighbors; the report did not specify whether a real submarine was used.
The short version
- North Korean state media says the military test-fired two submarine-designed cruise missiles in eastern waters on Wednesday.[Associated Press · France 24]
- State media called the weapons strategic, implying nuclear capability, but did not specify whether a real submarine was used.[Associated Press · Deutsche Welle]
- South Korea's military had not immediately commented, and the tests extend a recent run of North Korean weapons demonstrations.[Associated Press]
Key facts
- North Korean state media reported that the military test-fired two types of submarine-designed cruise missiles on Wednesday in eastern waters.[Associated Press · France 24]
- The state media described the weapons as strategic, implying intent to arm them with nuclear warheads, without specifying whether a real submarine or an underwater test platform was used.[Associated Press · Deutsche Welle]
- The stated aims were assessing underwater combat systems, improving Navy strategic missions, and demonstrating nuclear deterrent reliability.[Associated Press]
- KCNA said the launches went into the East Sea and posed no threat to neighboring countries.[France 24]
- South Korea's military did not immediately comment on the tests.[Associated Press]
- The launches followed hypersonic missile tests reported on September 20 and October 3.[Associated Press]
- France 24 reported that North Korea has carried out several submarine-launched missile launches in recent years, though its sea-based launch capabilities remain unclear.[France 24]
What remains uncertain
- The test date is disputed: DW gave October 15, 2026, while AP and France 24 said Wednesday.[Associated Press · France 24 · Deutsche Welle]
- It is unclear whether the missiles were launched from an actual submarine or an underwater test platform.[Associated Press · Deutsche Welle]
- The weapons claims come from North Korean state media, and South Korea had not commented at the time of reporting.[Associated Press]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.
- North Korea says it tested cruise missiles designed to be fired from submarinesAssociated Press · Wire: associated-press
- North Korea says it tested cruise missiles to be launched from subDeutsche Welle
- North Korea test-fires submarine-launched cruise missiles amid rising tensionsFrance 24