Hwasan-31

The Hwasan-31 () is a North Korean tactical nuclear warhead first unveiled in 2023.

Design

Based on images released by North Korea, the Hwasan-31 is estimated to be long, wide, has a mass of and a yield of 4–10 kt.

History

At the 8th Congress of the Workers' Party of Korea held in January 2021, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un planned to manufacture miniaturized nuclear weapons.

North Korea unveiled Hwasan-31 on 27 March 2023. North Korea's statement did not explicitly mention it; however, accompanying photos showed the name "Hwasan-31" being written on an information board. During the revelation of Hwasan-31, North Korea also revealed official designation of some short-range ballistic missiles that was tested in years before.

Capability

Hwasan-31 is capable of being carried by following weapon systems:

• Short-range ballistic missiles:
• Hwasong-11A (KN-23)
• Hwasong-11B (KN-24)
• Hwasong-11C
• Hwasong-11D
• Hwasong-11S
• KN-25 (600 mm multiple rocket launcher)
• Cruise missiles:
• Hwasal-1
• Hwasal-2
• Pulhwasal-3-31
• Unmanned underwater vehicle:
• Haeil

Strategic implication

The revelation of Hwasan-31 has demonstrated North Korea’s progress towards the development of tactical nuclear weapons.

References