North Korea's test of a solid-fuel rocket engine is intended for intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM) built with carbon fibre to extend range and allow for delivery of heavier and possibly multiple warheads, South Korean lawmakers said on Monday (April 6, 2026).
In March, North Korea conducted a ground test of a solid-fuel rocket engine that analysts believe is being developed for its latest ICBM.
North Korea conducts engine test for missile capable of targeting U.S. mainland
The new engine likely has greater thrust than the previous model it tested in 2024, which was already assessed as capable of striking anywhere in the mainland United States, they said.
North Korea has conducted all its longer-range missile launches at a lofted trajectory to splash down the projectiles in the ocean off its east coast or to the east of Japan to test them without flying them for a distance they are designed for.
