According to Mason on January 7, 2024, South Korea recently conducted missile tests in December 2023, launching the Hyunmoo-IV-1 and Hyunmoo-V strategic missiles. The Hyunmoo-V missile is reported to have more than 11 tons of firepower and plans to equip it with Maneuverable Re-entry Vehicle (MaRV) and Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) capabilities.
The Hyunmoo-V missile has the potential to carry one of the world’s largest warheads, weighing up to 9 tons, potentially mimicking the effects of nuclear weapons. (Picture source: South Korea MoD)
The Hyunmoo-IV-1 and Hyunmoo-V missiles, also known as the ‘High Power Missile’ (HPM), are designed to effectively neutralize underground facilities. The Hyunmoo-V missile has a unique design meant to detonate above these facilities, rendering them ineffective by burying them completely. Its solid propellant is powerful enough to require a cold-launch mechanism. Moreover, all Hyunmoo ballistic missiles are equipped with evasion systems designed to counteract air defense systems used by North Korea and other countries.
The Hyunmoo-V missile weighs 36 tons and follows a ‘Lofted trajectory,’ flying through the exosphere to enhance its penetration capability. South Korea has also conducted tests on hypersonic cruise vehicles, with ongoing development efforts focused on the Hypersonic Glide Vehicle (HGV).
According to sources, South Korea currently has a stockpile of over 20 Hyunmoo-V missiles, and mass production of the HPM series missiles is underway. South Korea uses the term ‘Extreme Precision, High Power Missile’ instead of more conventional designations like IRBM (Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missile) or ICBM (Intercontinental Ballistic Missile).
According to the Chosun Ilbo on December 29, 2023, the South Korean Minister of National Defense, Shin Won-sik, recently announced the successful test launches of the Hyunmoo-IV-1 and Hyunmoo-V missiles by the South Korean Army, without disclosing the exact timing of these tests. However, as reported by M51.4ever on January 7, 2024, information about these tests is often disclosed through NOTAMs (Notice to Airmen), which are notifications issued to ensure the safety of airspace and aircraft during missile-related activities.