DPRK shows off new Hwasong-11Ma hypersonic missile that could end up in Russia
North Korea unveiled a new hypersonic rocket for the first time Hwasong-11Ma, capable of reaching speeds in excess of 6000 km/h. According to experts, in the future this type of weapon may be transferred to Russia for use in the war against Ukraine.
What is known about Hwasong-11Ma
North Korean state media published the first images of a new missile during an arms exhibition in Pyongyang.
The Hwasong-11Ma has an aerodynamic hull and a new type of propulsion engine that allows it to reach speeds in excess of 6000 km/h.
According to experts, this is already hypersonic level, which complicates the operation of missile defence systems.
Comparison with the previous model
Previous version. Hwasong-11Da - had a warhead weighing about 2500 kg and a flight range of up to 600 km.
The new version, according to analysts, will have increased range, but a smaller combat unit, to reduce weight and increase speed.
Potential threat
In Western military circles, there are concerns that DPRK may transfer some of its missiles to Russia in exchange for technology or food.
If this happens, such weapons could be a serious threat to Ukrainian air defence, as intercepting hypersonic missiles remains a technically challenging task.
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