In file footage from October 2020, the missile system was seen being unveiled at a parade in the capital Pyongyang, with leader Kim Jong Un and other senior officials saluting, as the missiles were driven past crowds of flag-waving onlookers.
The new system involved an “ICBM-capable platform” but did not demonstrate inter-continental ranges in the launches, which were likely meant to test elements of the system before a full-range launch, potentially disguised as a space launch, the U.S. official told reporters, speaking on condition of anonymity.
On Thursday, North Korean state media quoted Kim Jong Un as saying that North Korea would launch a number of reconnaissance satellites in coming years to provide real-time information on military actions by the United States and its allies.