Mains issueGS-2News & Analysis04 October 2026

North Korea's Ballistic Missile Program and Regional Security Challenges

An aspirant should be able to argue that North Korea's persistent development of advanced ballistic missile and nuclear capabilities poses a significant and evolving challenge to regional stability, global non-proliferation efforts, and the effectiveness of international diplomacy and sanctions.

Source: thehindu.comOriginal report

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Why now

North Korea's recent intermediate-range strategic missile test, coupled with its stated intent to enhance its nuclear deterrent and strategic offensive weapons, underscores persistent challenges to regional stability and global non-proliferation efforts, making it a critical issue for UPSC Mains.

Core issue

North Korea conducted an intermediate-range strategic missile drill, overseen by leader Kim Jong Un, to train troops on a hypersonic strategic weapon system and assess its war deterrent capabilities. This test, part of a series, occurred amid heightened tensions on the Korean peninsula following a landmine blast in the Demilitarized Zone. North Korea emphasized the need to enhance its strategic offensive weapons and nuclear deterrent for national security, with Kim Yo Jong noting a 'wave-like trajectory mode' that challenged tracking capabilities.

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