North Korea tests solid-fuel missile engine as Kim boosts threat to US mainland

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw a test of a high-thrust solid-fuel rocket engine, according to state media reports on Sunday. The engine, made with carbon-fiber materials, is part of a five-year defense plan to enhance North Korea's strategic strike capabilities and potentially target the U.S. mainland. The engine reportedly produced 2,500 kilonewtons of thrust, exceeding previous tests. Solid-fuel systems are significant because they allow for quicker and less detectable launches compared to liquid-fuel missiles. Kim also inspected special operations training and a new main battle tank, highlighting a broader effort to modernize both missile programs and conventional forces. These activities follow a pattern of increased military development since the collapse of denuclearization talks with the U.S. in 2019.

North Korea conducted a test of a solid-fuel engine on March 29, 2026, according to images released by the North Korean government. The test took place at an undisclosed location within North Korea. The engine is reportedly for a missile capable of reaching the US mainland. The images were provided by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), and independent verification of the test has not been possible. The timing and purpose of the test were not explicitly stated in the provided information.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un supervised a test of a high-thrust solid-fuel engine for ICBMs, according to state media on Sunday. The engine, made of composite carbon fiber, reached a maximum thrust of 2,500 kilonewtons, an increase from a previous test in September. Kim stated the test aligns with the national strategy to modernize strategic forces and pledged to enhance defense capabilities. Analysts suggest the new engine, capable of lifting 255 tonnes, will likely be used in the Hwasong-20 ICBM. Experts note that if confirmed, this engine would rank among the most powerful globally, potentially rivaling the US Peacekeeper missile engine.