North Korea tests tactical ballistic missile cluster warhead

North Korea conducted a test of a cluster warhead for a tactical ballistic missile to assess its combat applicability and destructive power, state media reported Sunday. The Missile Administration carried out the test Saturday, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). The test was overseen by Gen Kim Jong Sik, a member of the Central Military Commission of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea and first deputy director of a department of the party's Central Committee. North Korea's Ballistic Missile Systems Research Institute and Warhead Research Institute said the test confirmed that the country's "Type-2 standard cluster warhead" could devastate a target area of about 12 to 13 hectares (29 to 32 acres) at what they described as an "ultra-high density." The head of the Missile Administration said North Korea classifies its cluster warheads into four categories, including special-purpose and standard types. Read: North Korea confirms test of tactical ballistic missile He said Pyongyang plans to make all four types available to military units by the end of this year, allowing them to select warheads according to operational objectives and the characteristics of targets. The Missile Administration described the test as part of regular scientific research aimed at increasing the destructive power of its weapons systems. Pyongyang has ramped up its show of force in recent weeks with multiple missile tests and holding a drone exhibition. Analysts said the tests could be part of efforts to modernise the military. North Korea gained experience in modern warfare, sending troops to the war in Ukraine for its ally Moscow. North Korea test-fired around 10 ballistic missiles from its east coast towards the sea on Thursday, when German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited South Korea for a summit.