North Korea tests new advanced air defense missile system

North Korea's state news agency reported on Thursday that Pyongyang has tested a new advanced air defense missile system and carried out cruise missile strike drills.

The agency said the air defense test confirmed the technical specifications and reliability of the new equipment, as well as the multiple guidance modes used in the missiles and the system's ability to detect and track targets.

It added that a sub-unit of the long-range strategic cruise missile unit in the eastern region also conducted a drill on Wednesday, targeting a simulated airport site.

The report appears to confirm a statement from South Korea's Ministry of Defense on Wednesday, which said Pyongyang had launched several missiles toward the sea from the Songdok area on the east coast. This marks North Korea's fourth missile launch in a month.