North Korea Tests New Solid-Fuel Engines Amid Deepening Arms Cooperation with Russia

Tests Could Bolster Nuclear-Capable Arsenal, Raising Global Security Concerns

North Korea has successfully tested new solid-fuel engines for its intermediate-range ballistic missiles, potentially enhancing its nuclear-capable arsenal with weapons that could more easily strike South Korea, Japan and US military bases as far away as Guam.
The tests coincide with reports of deepening arms cooperation between Russia and North Korea, sparking concerns that Moscow could help North Korea build its sanctions-busting nuclear weapons program.
Missiles with built-in solid propellants can be made ready to launch faster and are easier to move and conceal, making it harder for adversaries to detect and preempt the launch in advance.
North Korea's missile program, as well as its nuclear weapons, have been banned by UN Security Council resolutions, which imposed sanctions on the country.
The United States and South Korea have unveiled a new tailored deterrence strategy meant to respond to North Korea's mounting missile and nuclear threats and its growing military ties with Russia.