Description: North Korea has conducted short – range ballistic missiles tests in the Sea of Japan one day after Japanese Foreign Minister visited South Korea. The launch was labeled a response to the regional consolidation of power, as North Korea also recently strengthened its ties with Russia and sent soldiers in the war with Ukraine. The new missile was suspected to be equipped with technology only available to the US, China and Russia and could hit targets further with a more precise guidance system.
Impact: The growing tensions in the Indo – Pacific could further escalate in the form of military drills and territorial waters encroachment as both South and North Korea solidified cooperation with their respective allies. South Korea would look to enlarge and enhance their defensive capabilities while North Korea deepening its ties with Russia would seek greater access to high level military technology to remain militarily competitive in the region.