Link to article : https://apnews.com/article/north-korea-rocket-engine-icbm-kim-jong-un-a72c2076435402c08ea57f47faac1d5f
On September fourth North Korea said that it conducted its final test of a solid-fuel rocket engine. This engine is a long-range ballistic missile. The engine is built with carbon fiber and capable of producing 1,971 kilonewtons of thrust, which is more powerful than past models made. Kim Jong Un has called for further advancements in North Korea’s long-range weapons. This includes the development of multi-warhead systems that would help improve their chances of defeating missile defenses. North Korea’s efforts at building more effective rocket engines could be aimed at developing smaller Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs) that could be launched from a wider range of vehicles. Kim Jong Un called the test “eye-opening,” saying that the development of the new rocket engine is a “significant change.” North Korea’s weapons testing has increased since 2019. Kim is also continuing to strengthen his cooperation with Russia and China.
North Korea making and testing a new ICBM strengthens their military capabilities. The article says that “Kim has sent thousands of troops and large quantities of military equipment to Russia to help fuel President Vladimir Putin’s war on Ukraine.” Kim can choose to send this weapon to Russia, impacting the war. Kim could also share this weapon with his other allies, such as China. North Korea’s development of this weapon also shows that they want military power over the rest of the region. If they have the most developed weapons they have more power. Advanced weaponry can also be used against external aggression from North Korea’s enemies, like the US and South Korea. Kim wants the authority of North Korea to stay in his family, and having a strong military behind him increases his authority. As North Korea has nuclear weapons, I think that their military strength is bad for the United States and the East Asia region. They have too much power that is continuing to grow.
Allies of North Korea would agree with their weaponry advancement. Any stakeholder that cooperates with North Korea could benefit from their weapons. Russia specifically provides North Korea with technology for their weapons, and since North Korea sends Russia military weapons, Russia would support and contribute to North Korea’s weapon advancement. Also, since Russia supports North Korea in having nuclear weapons, I believe their stance wouldn’t be different from ICBMs. Since China still does not completely support North Korea’s nuclear program, I think that they support North Korea’s military advancement a little less. They do not have control or much influence over whether or not North Korea continues to up their weaponry.
This article connects to the themes of power and development. North Korea is increasing its military power and influence. A stronger and more developed military can lead to a stronger country, and that can lead to Kim having more control over his country. North Korea is using hard power in the form of military strength. Kim’s announcement of testing a new weapon is a public display of force, showing the military advancement to its enemies, allies, and neighbors.