North Korea has conducted a test fire with the new Hwasong-18 solid-fuel Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM).
According to the news made by Army Recognition, North Korea tested the missile called Hwasong-18 on the morning of April 13, 2023. The test was reported to have been successful. However, this raises concerns among the global community as it could have significant implications for international security. The Hwasong-18 is a next-generation North Korean-made intercontinental ballistic missile that was unveiled during a military parade in February 2023.
The Hwasong-18 is a new solid-fuel three-stage ICBM launched from a TEL (Transporter Erector Launcher), according to preliminary analysis by military experts. The missile has been designed to support the weight and size of the missile, allowing it to be transported on a 9×9 wheeled truck on a variety of terrains. In this context, the Hwasong-18 is housed in a protective canister mounted in the front-mid section of the TEL.
The missile uses solid fuel. ICBMs are typically designed to carry nuclear or conventional warheads over long distances, such as 5,500 to 12,000 km (3,400 to 7,500 miles). They are launched from silos, mobile launchers or submarines and follow a suborbital curve, enabling them to reach their targets quickly and with great precision.
Solid-fuel ICBMs can be launched faster than liquid-fueled missiles since they do not require a long refueling period compared to liquid-fueled missiles. This allows for faster response in times of crisis or conflict. Solid-fuel ICBMs can be more easily transported and deployed on mobile launchers, as there is no need for refueling infrastructure. This makes them difficult to detect and target.
