North Korea Marks Milestone with ‘Significant’ ICBM Rocket Engine Test

North Korea has successfully completed the ninth and final ground test of its solid-fuel rocket engine, marking a major step in its missile development program, according to the country’s official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). Built with carbon fiber, the new engine produces 1,971 kilonewtons of thrust, surpassing the power of earlier North Korean rockets, Al Jazeera reported.

KCNA noted that leader Kim Jong Un expressed satisfaction with Monday’s test, describing the development as an “eye-opening” and “significant change” in North Korea’s nuclear capabilities. The announcement comes just a week after Kim visited the research institute responsible for the engine, where he revealed that a next-generation Hwasong-20 ICBM is under development.

Defense analysts warn that the expansion of North Korea’s ICBM arsenal strengthens Pyongyang’s ability to threaten the continental United States and enhances its leverage in negotiations with the US and other global powers. North Korea’s nuclear ambitions are also seen as a way to cement its status as a recognized nuclear power.

The announcement coincided with the 77th anniversary of North Korea’s founding by Kim’s grandfather, Kim Il-sung. KCNA additionally reported that Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory letter to Kim, calling for intensified “strategic communication” and closer cooperation between Beijing and Pyongyang.

Last week, Kim also attended China’s Victory Day Parade in Beijing, alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping. Analysts view this rare international appearance as a diplomatic win for Kim, reinforcing North Korea’s alliances with both Russia and China amid global scrutiny of its weapons program.