Research reports and analysis

Tianran Xu
April 14, 2023

The DPRK's First Solid-Propellant ICBM Launch

Strategic Delivery Vehicle Development Series
On 13 April 2023, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) conducted its first flight test of a solid-propellant intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), the Hwasong-18.
Tianran Xu
February 23, 2023

Brief on the DPRK's 8 February 2023 Parade

Strategic Delivery Vehicle Developments Series
In comparison to previous military parades, the parade on 8 February 2023 put a strong focus on the intercontinental-range nuclear strike force: the parade only displayed a few conventional and short-range nuclear-capable weapon systems, but showcased an unprecedented number of 12 Hwasong-17 ICBMs.
Tianran Xu
February 13, 2023

Update on the DPRK's 600 mm Multiple Launch Rocket System

Strategic Delivery Vehicle Developments Series
The Democratic People's Republic of Korea acknowledged in 2020 that there were issues related to the production of the 600 mm calibre multiple launch rocket system (MLRS). The delivery of thirty such MLRS in December 2022 suggests that these problems have been resolved.
Marcy Fowler
Sarah Laderman
Valeriia Hesse
January 19, 2023

ONN Expert Roundup: Northeast Asia Consequences of Nuclear Escalation in Ukraine

The use of a nuclear weapon anywhere in the world would have far-reaching consequences, with effects extending well beyond the immediate area of impact. ONN has previously noted that any further escalation in Ukraine could potentially expand into an increase in military activity or force re-alignmen...
Tianran Xu
December 16, 2022

DPRK Unveils Its Solid-Propellant ICBM Motor

The DPRK claimed to have tested the country’s first large and high-thrust solid-propellant motor on 15 December 2022 at the Sohae Satellite Launching Ground. Judging from the stated thrust of 140 tons of force (tf) and purpose, the motor will likely serve as the first stage of a solid-propellant bal...
Tianran Xu
Katsuhisa Furukawa
Elin Bergner
Kristiana Nitisa
November 11, 2022

Escalating Tensions on the Korean Peninsula

Late September to early November 2022
Since late September, the Korean Peninsula has witnessed a new round of escalation of tensions. Coinciding with multiple joint and individual military exercises of the USA, ROK and Japan, the DPRK launched at least 30 ballistic missiles from 25 September to 14 November 2022 and fired artillery shell...