Thread by @JosephHDempsey

North Korea conducts a further suspected ballistic missile launch

🕚11:05 / 02:05 GMT
▶️800km
🔼50km

Source: mod.go.jp/j/press/news/2…

Depressed and "irregular trajectory" at this range could indicate KN-23 series, though previous max demonstrated range had been ~690km.

I would also not rule out a resumption of testing relating to claimed hypersonic manoeuvrable vehicles

https://twitter.com/JosephHDempsey/status/1637429673347932162?s=20

"Tongchang-ri area" implies a Sohae Satellite Launching Station launch site

Though static engine tests for military ballistic missiles continue to be conduct here, a test launch of an offensive ballistic missile from this site would be something new.

en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN202303…

North Korea state media indicate KN-23 series SRBM launch to 800km as part of simulated nuclear counter attack exercise. Claim detonation at 800m (to simulate nuclear airburst)

One notable aspect of this launch is we do not see the launcher.

Unlike previous KN-23 launches the engine exhaust appears to be vented either side.

A fixed site/silo is a possibility though would not fit into North Korea's history of mobile basing.

https://twitter.com/JosephHDempsey/status/1637585606074068993?s=20

https://twitter.com/JosephHDempsey/status/1637587670506393602?s=20

Hard to be sure given the surrounding landscape but certainly does look that that missile is emerging from ground level.

To be fair North Korea are probably running of ideas for KN-23 series basing...

▪️ Wheeled
▪️Tracked
▪️Rail
▪️Submarine
▪️Reservoir

Suspected geolocation of North Korea 'silo' launched KN-23 SRBM (39.65265, 124.7165)

Images from @planet on 13 Feb and 18 March indicate recent excavation/construction of possible fixed launch site at Sohae