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4w ago

CSIS Identifies Undeclared North Korean ICBM Base Near China Border

The open-source study places the hardened Sinpung-dong complex within a wider undeclared missile network that enhances survivability.

A satellite image provided by Planet Labs shows the Sinpung Dong Missile Operating Base in North Korea on August 12.
Sinpung-dong Missile Operating Base is an undeclared ballistic missile operating base in North Pyongan Province.

Overview

  • CSIS’s Beyond Parallel used July 11 commercial satellite imagery to confirm an undeclared missile operating base at Sinpung-dong about 27 km from China.
  • The think tank assesses a brigade-sized force with six to nine nuclear-capable ICBMs and their mobile launchers is stationed there.
  • Construction began around 2004, the base has been operational since roughly 2014, and imagery shows ongoing development.
  • The facility has hardened underground structures and drive-through checkout bays, with launchers expected to disperse to pre-surveyed firing sites in a crisis.
  • CSIS places the site within a network of roughly 15–20 undeclared missile and warhead facilities and says its proximity to China complicates potential strikes and presents a potential threat to East Asia and the U.S. mainland.