North Korea Claims Missile Tests with Cluster-Bomb Warheads amid Rising Tensions

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 07:32:00 +0200

North Korea announced that a series of recent weapons tests included ballistic missiles equipped with cluster-bomb warheads, signaling its continued focus on strengthening its arsenal in the face of tensions with South Korea. The tests reportedly took place over three days beginning Monday and showcased various new systems, including anti-aircraft, electromagnetic, and carbon-fiber weapons. North Korean state media described the tests as a demonstration of advanced missile technology, claiming the new Hwasong-11 missiles, similar in design to Russia’s Iskander models, could cover an area of up to 17 acres with destructive power.

South Korea’s military confirmed detecting multiple launches between Tuesday and Wednesday, with the projectiles flying between 240 and 700 kilometers before landing in the sea. While Seoul did not immediately verify Pyongyang’s claims about cluster munitions, officials noted that the actions mark an ongoing pattern of military escalation. The latest launches