North Korea's Hypersonic Missile Claims

North Korea claims to have successfully launched a hypersonic missile that allegedly traveled over 12 times the speed of sound for a distance of 1,500 kilometers. This type of missile is considerably difficult to intercept due to its ability to change direction, making it a significant concern for international security. Currently, only a handful of countries, namely the US, China, and Russia, possess this advanced technology, raising suspicions that Russia may be aiding North Korea in its missile development efforts. The North Korean leader, Kim Jong-un, has stated that the missile serves a purpose of self-defense and aims to limit the actions of rival nations, showcasing the strategic implications of this technology on regional tensions.