Kim Jong-un, North Korea’s dictator, has vowed to “exponentially” increase the number of the country’s nuclear weapons.
In a speech marking the regime’s founding anniversary on Monday, Kim said North Korea must build its “nuclear capability and its readiness to use it properly at any given time in ensuring the security rights of the state”, reported state newswire KCNA.
Kim justified the move by claiming North Korea faces a “grave threat” from what it sees as a US-led nuclear bloc in the region.
His latest announcement followed the official release of a photo showing a new 12-axle transporter erector launcher (TEL), raising concerns that Pyongyang could use the vehicle to launch a new intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) – a weapon capable of hitting the mainland United States.
The picture showed Kim inspecting the vehicle, which is larger than any previously known launchers, suggesting that it could be paired with a missile that has an even larger range or warhead.
In response, Pentagon press secretary Major General Pat Ryder said the US was focused on “working with our regional allies and partners” including South Korea and Japan “on preserving regional security and stability and deterring a potential attack.”
