general
North Korea tests 2,500 kN solid-fuel engine in step toward ICBMs
State media said Kim Jong-un oversaw a ground test of an upgraded solid-fuel rocket engine reported at 2,500 kilonewtons, a development experts say could speed launches and extend North Korea's strike range.
Mar 29th 2026 ยท North Korea
Insights
- KCNA reported a ground test of a solid-fuel engine with 2,500 kilonewtons of thrust.
- Kim Jong-un inspected the engine and the test site, according to state media.
- Solid-fuel engines require minimal preparation and allow faster missile launches.
- Analysts say the increased thrust indicates intent to deploy ICBMs that could reach the United States and challenge missile defenses.
- Higher thrust is required for multi-warhead ICBMs, but flight tests would be needed to prove multi-warhead capability.