22 Apr 2024 | 07:11 AM UTC
North Korea: Pyongyang reportedly launches a ballistic missile toward Sea of Japan (East Sea) 15:04 April 22
North Korea launches ballistic missiles into the Sea of Japan (East Sea)15:04 April 22. No reports of damage or casualties.
South Korean and Japanese officials reported that North Korea launched a suspected ballistic missile into the Sea of Japan (East Sea) at 15:04 April 22. The flight path and distances of the projectiles remain unclear, though officials confirm that they landed outside Japan's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). There were no immediate reports of damage, casualties, or transport disruptions following the launch. Additional projectile launches are possible over the coming days.
Previously, North Korea conducted test launches of a surface-to-air anti-aicraft missile April 19 and an intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) April 2. The series of missile launches comes amid concerns that Moscow, Russia, and Pyongyang are increasing military ties. Pyongyang has also conducted at least five cruise missile tests. Against the backdrop of the upcoming US Presidential Election Nov. 5, North Korea is likely to continue increasing the frequency of projectile launches and missile tests in the coming months. South Korean officials have also noted the possibility of localized provocation by Pyongyang on the border islands of South Korea. However, both sides will likely avoid any actions that could escalate into a full-scale conflict.
