Overview

• KCNA said Kim Jong-un inspected a missile institute and reviewed a new solid-fuel engine rated at 1,960 kilonewtons of thrust.
• State media reported the engine will equip the existing Hwasong-19 line and a forthcoming Hwasong-20 intercontinental missile.
• Kim also examined production of carbon-fiber composites used in high-thrust motors, underscoring materials advances for solid-fuel systems.
• According to KCNA, eight ground tests were conducted over the past two years and plans for a specialized production base were discussed, indicating movement toward mass production.
• Analysts interpret the higher thrust as enabling multiple warheads, while a South Korean opposition lawmaker raised the prospect of Russian assistance as Seoul says it is closely monitoring.