A Reminder of the North Korea Missile Threat

Bruce Klingner / July 02, 2009

North Korea launched on July 2 at least three short-range anti-ship missiles into waters along its east coast. Pyongyang’s provocative act will further heighten tensions on the Korean Peninsula and may be a precursor to additional missile activity in coming days. Pyongyang’s increased anti-ship missile and coastal artillery training since the beginning of the year may be a show of tactical military prowess to back up escalating threats of renewed naval confrontation with South Korea over a disputed maritime border on the west coast.

The launch of the anti-ship missiles, with a range of less than 100 miles, may not actually be a violation of UN resolutions which preclude “ballistic missile activity.” It is certainly no direct threat to the United States. But it is a pointed reminder – as it is not doubt intended – of the looming North Korean long range ballistic missile threat. (more…)