The Central Telegraph Agency of Korea (CTAK) reports that the country's leader Kim Jong Un personally observed the test, which he described as "of great significance" for enhancing the level of strategic weapons within the framework of a five-year defense plan. The new engine, made from carbon composite, demonstrates a maximum thrust of about 2,500 kilonewtons, which is a significant improvement compared to the previous model tested in September last year, which developed 1,970 kilonewtons.
However, experts from South Korea point out the lack of information regarding the engine's operating time, which may indicate an exaggeration of its characteristics by the North Korean side.
In recent years, North Korea has conducted numerous intercontinental missile tests, demonstrating a range sufficient to strike the continental United States. As noted by AP, some of these missiles used solid-fuel engines, making them harder to detect before launch compared to traditional liquid systems.
