For subscribers

News analysis

North Korea’s nuclear arsenal upgrade a serious threat, even if untested

Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox

Military parade celebrating the 80th anniversary of the founding of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea (WPK), in Pyongyang, North Korea, in this pictured released October 11, 2025 by North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency.    KCNA via REUTERS    ATTENTION EDITORS - THIS IMAGE WAS PROVIDED BY A THIRD PARTY. REUTERS IS UNABLE TO INDEPENDENTLY VERIFY THIS IMAGE. NO THIRD PARTY SALES. SOUTH KOREA OUT. NO COMMERCIAL OR EDITORIAL SALES IN SOUTH KOREA.     TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY

The Hwasong-20 is North Korea's most advanced intercontinental ballistic missile, and analysts warn its formidable nuclear arsenal should be taken seriously. 

PHOTO: REUTERS

Follow topic:
  • North Korea unveiled new weaponry, including the Hwasong-20 ICBM and Chonma-20 tank, at a military parade, showcasing advanced capabilities.
  • Analysts warn that the Hwasong-20, potentially carrying multiple warheads and using solid-fuel, poses a "high-yield, ultra-precision strike capability" against the US.
  • High-level delegations from China and Russia attended the parade, signalling North Korea's increased international standing.

AI generated

As North Korea’s newest long-range nuclear missile and tanks rolled down Pyongyang’s main square amid loud cheers on Oct 10, the country’s leader, Mr Kim Jong Un, was not only showing the world what it was capable of in advanced weaponry, but also its growing confidence in diplomacy.

At the rain-soaked night parade to mark the 80th anniversary of North Korea’s ruling Workers’ Party, Mr Kim beamed as both the Hwasong-20 missile and Chonma-20 battle tank were unveiled for the first time.

See more on