North Korea conducts test launches of cruise missiles from submarines

North Korea announced on Thursday that it carried out test launches of two kinds of submarine-launched strategic cruise missiles into the East Sea.

State-run media outlet Korean Central News Agency reported that the launches took place on Wednesday. According to the state agency, the operation was designed to inspect the readiness of the military's underwater systems, enhance the navy's capability to execute strategic assignments, and demonstrate the strength and dependability of the country's deterrent forces.

Senior defense officials monitored the exercise, including Kim Jong-sik, who serves on the ruling Workers' Party Central Military Commission, and Jang Chang-ha, the director-general of the Missile Administration. Naval engineers specializing in underwater weaponry systems were also present during the operation.

The launches were not covered by Rodong Sinmun, the state's main domestic newspaper.

The undersea tests follow another weapons trial conducted earlier in the week. On Monday, North Korea launched tactical ballistic missiles from the Pyongyang region toward the East Sea. State media subsequently indicated that the earlier Monday drill had been arranged to verify technological advancements made to a critical core component.