World · East Asia & Pacific · 2 hrs ago
North Korea tests cluster warhead for tactical ballistic missiles
North Korea says it tested a cluster warhead for tactical ballistic missiles on October 31.
The test assessed how the weapon performs in combat and how powerful it is, according to state media.
The warhead spreads many smaller explosives over an area, rather than hitting only one point.
North Korea said its Standard Type 2 warhead could destroy a target area of 12 to 13 hectares.
The country says it has four types of cluster warheads, intended for different purposes and targets.
It plans to let military units choose among all four types by the end of 2026.
The test adds to North Korea's efforts to expand its missile capabilities.
North Korea said it tested a cluster-bomb warhead designed for tactical ballistic missiles to assess its combat use and destructive power.
The test took place on October 31, according to North Korean state media.
North Korea said the Standard Type 2 warhead could destroy a target area of 12 to 13 hectares.
A missile administration official said the warheads are divided into four categories.
North Korea said it aims to let military units select and use all the types by the end of 2026.
- Who
- North Korea’s Missile Administration conducted the test; Gen. Kim Jong-sik oversaw it, according to KCNA.
- What
- North Korea tested a cluster-bomb warhead for tactical ballistic missiles.
- When
- October 31, according to KCNA reports published on November 1.
- Where
- Not stated.
- Why
- To assess the warhead’s combat applicability and destructive power.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
North Korea said it tested cluster bombs mounted on the Hwasong-11 Ra tactical ballistic missile.
North Korea conducted the test of a cluster-bomb warhead for tactical ballistic missiles.
KCNA reported that the Standard Type 2 warhead could destroy a target area of 12 to 13 hectares.
- Test date
- October 31, 2026
- Warhead
- Standard Type 2 cluster-bomb warhead
- Target area
- 12 to 13 hectares
- Warhead categories
- Four
- Planned fielding
- By the end of 2026
5 sources
What people are saying
Within this year we will enable units to select and use all those types according to operational aims and specific features of targets
We categorize cluster warheads as a special purpose warhead and warheads of four standard types.