The 1,000 km range claimed by the Korean Central News Agency exceeds previous estimates from South Korean and Japanese officials, who reported a flight distance of 680 to 700 km. Some arms control analysts suggest the discrepancy may stem from radar blind spots during the missile's glide phase. The test occurred amid high tensions following a Sept 21 mine blast in the demilitarized zone that injured three South Korean soldiers, though U.S. Pacific Command noted the launch posed no immediate threat to U.S. territory or personnel.
Wednesday, October 21, 2026
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North Korea's AI Missile Hits 1,000 km Target
War17 days ago
State media reported that an intermediate-range strategic projectile successfully completed a test flight into the Sea of Japan on Oct 3 under the supervision of Kim Jong Un and his family. The weapon struck a designated target 1,000 km away using artificial intelligence in its mid-course and terminal phases to correct its flight. Kim Yo Jong stated that the missile employs a maneuvering reentry vehicle capable of changing trajectory at low altitude to evade defensive systems, claiming such capabilities make the attacks unavoidable.
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