North Korea has conducted a 'firepower attack drill' with long-range artillery and missiles, state media reported on Monday. The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said the drill took place on Saturday and involved combined units at all levels of the Korean People's Army. South Korea had reported that North Korea fired multiple ballistic missiles from the Wonsan area toward the East Sea, also known as Sea of Japan, on the same day.
The drill came a day after South Korea concluded five days of joint maritime drills with the United States and Japan, which were focused on North Korea. The KCNA report did not specify the location of the drill but mentioned that it utilized 'new combat systems such as attack drones of various kinds, tactical cruise missiles, large-caliber thermal-pressure multiple rocket launchers, and tactical ballistic missiles.'
According to KCNA, the weapons used in the drill 'demonstrated the huge destructive power of concentration fire by hitting the targets with 100 percent hit accuracy.' The announcement of the drill comes amid heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula, following recent military activities by both North and South Korea.
North Korea has a history of conducting military drills and missile tests to showcase its military capabilities and deter perceived threats from the United States and its allies. These actions often lead to international condemnation and calls for de-escalation. The United Nations Security Council has imposed multiple sanctions on North Korea in response to its missile and nuclear programs.
The recent joint drills between South Korea, the United States, and Japan were aimed at enhancing their defense capabilities and sending a message of deterrence to North Korea. These exercises typically involve various military assets, including aircraft carriers, fighter jets, and submarines, and are designed to improve interoperability among the allies.
The situation on the Korean Peninsula remains volatile, with North Korea continuing to develop its missile and nuclear programs despite international pressure. The international community, including Bangladesh, closely monitors these developments due to their potential impact on regional and global security.
