Taean:South Korea conducted its inaugural test launch of a hypersonic glide vehicle (HGV) on Thursday, as stated by Cheong Wa Dae. This move appears to be a demonstration of power against North Korea amidst rising tensions following a recent land mine explosion at the border.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the test aimed to validate core technologies of the hypersonic glide vehicle, including flight trajectories and speed. The HGV is seen as a strategic asset for executing precision strikes on enemy targets. Presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung noted in a briefing that President Lee Jae Myung attended the launch alongside Defense Minister Kang Shin-chul and other officials.
The HGV system employs a booster to reach the upper atmosphere before detaching and gliding at hypersonic speeds at lower altitudes. The successful separation from its booster and its flawless execution of the planned flight path were highlighted as significant achievements in the test. This marks a critical step in establishing a deterrent capable of targeting crucial areas across the Korean Peninsula.
While the specific location of the test was not disclosed, reports indicate it took place on a barge within a test center managed by the Agency for Defense Development in Taean, approximately 130 kilometers south of Seoul. The test focused on super-high temperature thermal protection materials, guidance and control systems, and maneuverability at low altitudes. The HGV demonstrated its ability to adjust its course both horizontally and vertically, hitting the target with precision.
This unannounced launch is perceived as a response to the land mine incident on September 21, which resulted in severe injuries to two South Korean soldiers. South Korea holds North Korea responsible for the incident, alleging that the mines were planted by Northern troops, breaching the armistice agreement. Tensions have escalated since, with North Korea denying involvement and threatening retaliation if South Korea responds.
The South Korean government, led by Lee Jae Myung, has faced criticism for its measured response to the mine blast, as it aims to maintain a conciliatory approach towards Pyongyang. Defense Minister Kang Shin-chul mentioned that various countermeasures are being considered following a mine-clearing operation at the blast site.
By unveiling the HGV program, South Korea not only showcases its advanced missile capabilities but also signals a strong deterrent against North Korea's advancing missile threats. Recently, North Korea conducted a test of a hypersonic medium-range ballistic missile, which reportedly traveled different distances according to South Korean and North Korean claims.
President Lee praised the team behind the HGV development for enhancing the nation's defense capabilities. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding national security through self-reliance and committed to supporting the development and deployment of advanced weaponry. He also urged further refinement of the HGV technology to ensure it becomes a dependable strategic asset.
Following the HGV test, President Lee inspected the military's "bunker buster" Hyunmoo-5 surface-to-surface missile, known for its significant weight and destructive power. This marks the first official acknowledgment of the "Hyunmoo-5" designation in a government press statement, previously referred to as a "high-power missile."