North Korea claimed Sunday that it successfully launched a submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) off its eastern coast, showing its gradual advance in SLBM technology. The result came after two times of test launches, according to South Korea`s intelligence sources.

The North’s media reported that the missile was launched from a 2,000 ton submarine instead of an underwater barge using “cold launch” technology, which means it can fire a ballistic missile vertically from a submarine.

South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff explained that the North made progress in its SLBM technology after a failed post-launch flight on December 25, but the latest one flew just about 30 kilometers, well short of the minimum range of 300 km, adding the flight is the North’s first meaningful outcome in SLBM technology.

The North’s state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said North Korean leader Kim Jong-un was present for the event and stressed that Pyongyang now can greatly advance the fighting capability of its Navy.

Observers believe Kim Jong-un is trying to project strength ahead of the Workers’ Party Congress next month by raising military tensions that can possibly include an additional nuclear test.

Meanwhile, North Korea has deployed some 300 new multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS) along its front line. Sources said Pyongyang has placed the 122 millimeter rocket launchers north of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) that separates the two Koreas and the weapons systems have an estimated range of up to 40 kilometers, which can hit Seoul and surrounding areas in the South.

The South Korean government strongly condemned the missile launch by North Korea, saying it will take necessary measures in cooperation with neighboring countries.

By Ahn Doo-won

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