North Korea's 'Mixed Firing' of Short-Range Ballistic Missiles and Rocket Launchers After President Lee's 'Nuclear Sub' Remarks

North Korea fired multiple projectiles, including short-range ballistic missiles (CRBMs) and multiple rocket launchers, into the West Sea on April 26. The South Korean military detected the launches from the Jeongju area of North Pyongan Province around 1 p.m. The CRBMs traveled approximately 80 kilometers, and multiple rocket launchers were also fired, according to military assessments. The Joint Chiefs of Staff are conducting further analysis to determine if other weapon systems were involved beyond ballistic missiles and rocket launchers.

This launch marks North Korea's eighth missile firing this year and the first in 37 days. The timing is significant, occurring shortly after South Korean President Lee Jae-myung announced at a cabinet meeting that the country would expedite its plans to acquire nuclear-powered submarines. The launches also come amid speculation about a potential visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping to Pyongyang.

North Korea's use of a "mixed firing" tactic, combining different types of projectiles, is interpreted as an effort to demonstrate its capabilities in evading air defense systems and striking targets. The South Korean military has shared information regarding the North Korean missile launches with Japan. A spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged North Korea to respond positively to South Korea's peace and de-escalation efforts.

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We once again urge North Korea to respond to our peace policy and de-escalation efforts.