Correct Answer: D
Explanation:
North Korea has claimed that it has successfully test-fired its first intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) Hwasong-14 into waters near Sea of Japan.
The claim was confirmed by United States.
The launch appeared to be North Korea’s most successful missile test since its ballistic missile programme gathered pace in the late 1990s.
The successful test also marks North Korea’s the final step in becoming confident and powerful nuclear state that can strike anywhere on Earth.
Based on missile’s height and trajectory path, US scientists claim that missile could potentially be powerful enough to reach Alaska.
The missile had reached an altitude higher and flew longer than any of the North Korea’s previous similar tests.
The missile had landed in Japan’s exclusive economic zone.
The ICBM testing represents a new escalation of the threat to US and its allies and partners, the region and the world.
ICBM: Know More
An ICBM is a missile launched by a land-based system that is intended to carry nuclear payloads.
To qualify as an ICBM, a missile must have a minimum range of 5,500km.
The most significant difference between an ICBM and other ballistic missiles is its greater range and speed.
It enables countries to strike exceptionally distant targets with minimum warning.