North Korea tested another massive ballistic missile system. This was among the dozens of missiles North Korea has tested since January 2022. ICBM, Hwasong-17, first revealed in 2020, is about 25 metres long. It is North Korea’s longest weapon & a full range test was conducted on March 24. But why is North Korea testing so many missiles?

North Korea tests massive ballistic missile: Why has Kim Jong Un tested dozens missiles in 2022?

From hypersonics to cruise missiles: North Korea's long-range ballistic missile technology

The US military has said that it will postpone a scheduled test launch of a Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile, in a bid to lower soaring tensions after Russia announced it was putting its nuclear forces on high alert.

US delays ICBM test launch in a bid to ease Russia Nuclear tensions

Russia on Saturday launched its “planned” nuclear drills hours after the US said that the Russian troops manned near Ukraine’s border are “poised to strike”.

The drills come amid tensions boiling between the West and Russia over the Ukraine conflict.

Russia test-fired its latest hypersonic, cruise and nuclear-capable ballistic missiles on the ground, at sea and in the air, as part of “planned exercises” under the watchful eyes of President Vladimir Putin, who was joined by Belarus’ Alexander Lukashenko.

“All the missiles hit their targets, confirming their performance objectives,” the Kremlin said in a statement, adding that the drills included Tu-95 bombers and submarines.

“The main objective of these exercises is to perfect the performance of our strategic offensive forces, with the aim of delivering a guaranteed strike against the enemy," chief of the general staff Valery Gerasimov told Putin in televised comments.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-invading-ukraine-will-invite-bolstered-nato-on-europes-eastern-flank-harris-454615" hreflang="en">Kamala Harris warns Russia of huge financial costs if it invades Ukraine</a>

The drills included Russia's Black and North Sea navies, as well as the country's strategic forces, the Kremlin said.

Meanwhile, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said Russian forces were beginning to “uncoil and move closer” to the border with its former Soviet neighbour.

“We hope he steps back from the brink of conflict,” he told a news conference on a visit to Lithuania, saying an invasion of Ukraine was not inevitable.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-russian-rebel-leader-announces-general-mobilisation-1-ukraine-soldier-killed-in-clashes-454514">Pro-Russian rebel leader announces 'general mobilisation'; 1 Ukraine soldier killed in clashes</a>

The US has been accusing Russia of amassing over 150,000 soldiers near the borders even as Kremlin announced that is pulling back.

Joe Biden has been claiming that Russia can attack Ukraine “any time now”.

Earlier in the day, Russian-backed separatist leaders in eastern Ukraine declared a full military mobilisation, a day after ordering women and children to evacuate to Russia, citing the threat of an imminent attack by Ukrainian forces.

Both Kyiv and Washington have denied the accusation saying that increased shelling across the ceasefire line this week is part of Russia's plan to create a pretext for an invasion of Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Saturday launched its “planned” nuclear drills hours after the US said that the Russian troops manned near Ukraine’s border are “poised to strike”. The drills come amid tensions boiling between the West and Russia over the Ukraine conflict.

Russia on Saturday launched its “planned” nuclear drills hours after the US said that the Russian troops manned near Ukraine’s border are “poised to strike”. The drills come amid tensions boiling between the West and Russia over the Ukraine conflict. Russia test-fired its latest hypersonic, cruise and nuclear-capable ballistic missiles on the ground, at sea and in the air, as part of “planned exercises” under the watchful eyes of President Vladimir Putin, who was joined by Belarus’ Alexander Lukashenko. “All the missiles hit their targets, confirming their performance objectives,” the Kremlin said in a statement, adding that the drills included Tu-95 bombers and submarines. “The main objective of these exercises is to perfect the performance of our strategic offensive forces, with the aim of delivering a guaranteed strike against the enemy," chief of the general staff Valery Gerasimov told Putin in televised comments. Also read | Kamala Harris warns Russia of huge financial costs if it invades Ukraine The drills included Russia's Black and North Sea navies, as well as the country's strategic forces, the Kremlin said. Meanwhile, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said Russian forces were beginning to “uncoil and move closer” to the border with its former Soviet neighbour. “We hope he steps back from the brink of conflict,” he told a news conference on a visit to Lithuania, saying an invasion of Ukraine was not inevitable. Also read | Pro-Russian rebel leader announces 'general mobilisation'; 1 Ukraine soldier killed in clashes The US has been accusing Russia of amassing over 150,000 soldiers near the borders even as Kremlin announced that is pulling back. Joe Biden has been claiming that Russia can attack Ukraine “any time now”. Earlier in the day, Russian-backed separatist leaders in eastern Ukraine declared a full military mobilisation, a day after ordering women and children to evacuate to Russia, citing the threat of an imminent attack by Ukrainian forces. Both Kyiv and Washington have denied the accusation saying that increased shelling across the ceasefire line this week is part of Russia's plan to create a pretext for an invasion of Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Ballistic, cruise missiles in exercises: Russia flexes muscles as US says Moscow ‘poised to strike’

Iran unveiled a new missile with a range of 1,450 km, making it capable of targeting Israel and US bases in the Middle East. The missile is called the Khaibar-buster.

Iran unveils ballistic missile called Kheibar buster as nuclear talks resume in Vienna

Days after the talks on the 2015 nuclear agreement began in Vienna, Tehran on Wednesday unveiled a long-range ballistic missile capable of striking&nbsp;the US bases in the region and also targeting&nbsp;inside archenemy Israel.

The state TV reported that the missile, called Khaibar-buster, uses solid fuel and is capable of penetrating into&nbsp;missile shields with high manoeuvrability during the landing stage.

The new missile has a range of 1,450 kilometres (900 miles). Notably, Israel’s closest point to Iran is around 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) away.

Reportedly, it also has missiles that can travel up to 2,000 kilometres (1,250 miles).

The name Khaibar-buster has a reference to a Jewish castle in present-day Saudi Arabia that was overrun by Muslim warriors in the early days of Islam in the 7th century.

The missile is propelled by solid fuel.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-nuclear-talks-us-hopeful-of-building-on-negotiations-progress-this-week-442369">Iran nuclear talks: US hopeful of building on negotiations progress&nbsp;</a>

The modified design of Kheibarshekan has reduced its weight by a third compared to the similar missiles, while its preparation time for launch has decreased to one-sixth of the ordinary ones, Iran’s Tasnim News Agency reported.

Among its other features include its agility and high velocity in hitting the targets.

“This long-range missile is domestically manufactured by the Revolutionary Guards (IRGC)… It has high accuracy and is propelled by solid fuel and is capable of penetrating missile shields,” Iranian state media reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-launches-research-cargos-into-space-amid-stalled-nuclear-talks-441140">Iran launches 'research cargos into space' amid stalled nuclear talks</a>

Meanwhile, the 8th round of the 2015 nuclear talks, which was halted for more than a week to allow delegations to head back to their capitals for political consultations, resumed on Tuesday in Vienna.

The Iranian government has refused to talk directly to the United States, which unilaterally abandoned the deal&nbsp;in 2018 and reimposed&nbsp;harsh sanctions&nbsp;on Iran.

The Vienna talks are currently being facilitated by European officials.

(With inputs from agencies)

Days after the talks on the 2015 nuclear agreement began in Vienna, Tehran on Wednesday unveiled a long-range ballistic missile capable of striking the US bases in the region and also targeting inside archenemy Israel.

Days after the talks on the 2015 nuclear agreement began in Vienna, Tehran on Wednesday unveiled a long-range ballistic missile capable of striking the US bases in the region and also targeting inside archenemy Israel. The state TV reported that the missile, called Khaibar-buster, uses solid fuel and is capable of penetrating into missile shields with high manoeuvrability during the landing stage. The new missile has a range of 1,450 kilometres (900 miles). Notably, Israel’s closest point to Iran is around 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) away. Reportedly, it also has missiles that can travel up to 2,000 kilometres (1,250 miles). The name Khaibar-buster has a reference to a Jewish castle in present-day Saudi Arabia that was overrun by Muslim warriors in the early days of Islam in the 7th century. The missile is propelled by solid fuel. Also read | Iran nuclear talks: US hopeful of building on negotiations progress The modified design of Kheibarshekan has reduced its weight by a third compared to the similar missiles, while its preparation time for launch has decreased to one-sixth of the ordinary ones, Iran’s Tasnim News Agency reported. Among its other features include its agility and high velocity in hitting the targets. “This long-range missile is domestically manufactured by the Revolutionary Guards (IRGC)… It has high accuracy and is propelled by solid fuel and is capable of penetrating missile shields,” Iranian state media reported. Also read | Iran launches 'research cargos into space' amid stalled nuclear talks Meanwhile, the 8th round of the 2015 nuclear talks, which was halted for more than a week to allow delegations to head back to their capitals for political consultations, resumed on Tuesday in Vienna. The Iranian government has refused to talk directly to the United States, which unilaterally abandoned the deal in 2018 and reimposed harsh sanctions on Iran. The Vienna talks are currently being facilitated by European officials. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran unveils long-range ballistic missile capable of striking US bases, Israel

In a third such recent attack, a ballistic missile, which was fired by Houthi rebels of Yemen, was intercepted by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) early on Monday. &nbsp; &nbsp;

This comes as the Israeli president has visited the country, the authorities said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"The attack did not result in any losses, as the remnants of the ballistic missile fell outside the populated areas,” said the UAE's state-run WAM news agency, while reporting the interception. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-president-expresses-support-for-uaes-security-needs-during-his-visit-449057" hreflang="en">Israel president expresses support for UAE's security needs during his visit</a>

It was not immediately clear where the missile remnants fell. &nbsp;&nbsp;

There was no immediate effect on air travel in the UAE, the country's civilian air traffic control agency said. &nbsp;

The Emirati Defense Ministry has also released black-and-white footage, which it said to be showing the destruction of a ballistic missile launcher in Yemen's al-Jawf province just 30 minutes after the attack. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-confirms-hwasong-12-irbm-test-shares-pictures-taken-in-space-449078" hreflang="en">North Korea confirms Hwasong-12 IRBM test, shares&nbsp;pictures taken in space</a>

On Twitter, Houthi military spokesman Yehia Sarei wrote that the rebels would make an announcement about an attack in the coming hours that reached into "the depths of the UAE." &nbsp;

Sarei did not elaborate. Airstrikes had begun targeting Sanaa, Yemen's rebel-held capital, reported the Houthis' Al-Masirah satellite news channel. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a third such recent attack, a ballistic missile, which was fired by Houthi rebels of Yemen, was intercepted by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) early on Monday.

In a third such recent attack, a ballistic missile, which was fired by Houthi rebels of Yemen, was intercepted by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) early on Monday. This comes as the Israeli president has visited the country, the authorities said. "The attack did not result in any losses, as the remnants of the ballistic missile fell outside the populated areas,” said the UAE's state-run WAM news agency, while reporting the interception. Also Read: Israel president expresses support for UAE's security needs during his visit It was not immediately clear where the missile remnants fell. There was no immediate effect on air travel in the UAE, the country's civilian air traffic control agency said. The Emirati Defense Ministry has also released black-and-white footage, which it said to be showing the destruction of a ballistic missile launcher in Yemen's al-Jawf province just 30 minutes after the attack. Also Read: North Korea confirms Hwasong-12 IRBM test, shares pictures taken in space On Twitter, Houthi military spokesman Yehia Sarei wrote that the rebels would make an announcement about an attack in the coming hours that reached into "the depths of the UAE." Sarei did not elaborate. Airstrikes had begun targeting Sanaa, Yemen's rebel-held capital, reported the Houthis' Al-Masirah satellite news channel. (With inputs from agencies)

UAE intercepts ballistic missile fired by Yemen’s Houthi rebels

The year 2022 seems to have brought a flurry of missile tests in North Korea. In its 7th test this year, the country's regime fired at least one suspected ballistic missile into the sea on Sunday. It could be its&nbsp;longest-range missile&nbsp;test since 2017, as per a Reuters report.&nbsp;

The move seems to be an apparent attempt to put pressure on the Biden administration over long-stalled nuclear negotiations. &nbsp;

This comes as the tensions are rife in Ukraine and there is a possibility of an outbreak of war any moment. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rockets-hit-baghdad-airport-compound-no-casualties-448370" hreflang="en">Rockets hit Baghdad airport compound; no casualties</a>

A suspected ballistic missile launch, which soared deep into space, has been reported by the governments in Japan and South Korea.&nbsp;

A projectile, which is believed to be a single ballistic missile, was launched at about 7:52 am (2252 GMT) from North Korea's Jagang Province towards the ocean off its east coast, reported South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff.&nbsp;

The test involved an intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM), which North Korea has not tested since 2017, said South Korea's National Security Council (NSC), which convened a rare emergency meeting presided over by President Moon Jae-in due to the launch.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/missile-drone-attacks-force-us-to-issue-travel-advisory-for-the-uae-448495" hreflang="en">Missile, drone attacks force US to issue travel advisory for the UAE</a>

With the launch, North Korea is taking a step closer to fully scrapping a self-imposed moratorium on testing nuclear weapons or its longest-range intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), Moon said.&nbsp;

The missile is estimated to have reached an altitude of 2,000km and flown for 30 minutes to a distance of 800km, said South Korea's JCS and Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno separately.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The year 2022 seems to have brought a flurry of missile tests in North Korea. In its 7th test this year, the country's regime fired at least one suspected ballistic missile into the sea on Sunday.

The year 2022 seems to have brought a flurry of missile tests in North Korea. In its 7th test this year, the country's regime fired at least one suspected ballistic missile into the sea on Sunday. It could be its longest-range missile test since 2017, as per a Reuters report. The move seems to be an apparent attempt to put pressure on the Biden administration over long-stalled nuclear negotiations. This comes as the tensions are rife in Ukraine and there is a possibility of an outbreak of war any moment. Also Read: Rockets hit Baghdad airport compound; no casualties A suspected ballistic missile launch, which soared deep into space, has been reported by the governments in Japan and South Korea. A projectile, which is believed to be a single ballistic missile, was launched at about 7:52 am (2252 GMT) from North Korea's Jagang Province towards the ocean off its east coast, reported South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff. The test involved an intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM), which North Korea has not tested since 2017, said South Korea's National Security Council (NSC), which convened a rare emergency meeting presided over by President Moon Jae-in due to the launch. Also Read: Missile, drone attacks force US to issue travel advisory for the UAE With the launch, North Korea is taking a step closer to fully scrapping a self-imposed moratorium on testing nuclear weapons or its longest-range intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), Moon said. The missile is estimated to have reached an altitude of 2,000km and flown for 30 minutes to a distance of 800km, said South Korea's JCS and Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno separately. (With inputs from agencies)

In 7th test in 2022, North Korea fires longest-range missile since 2017

Just a week after North Korea launched what it claimed to be a hypersonic missile, this morning, North Korea has again fired what it is describing to be a ballistic missile into the Eastern Sea.

North Korea fires a 'ballistic missile', 2nd suspected missile fired in 6 days

Amid global condemnation from world powers, North Korea tests Hypersonic missile in a bid to upgrade its missile arsenal.

North Korea tests Hypersonic missile in a bid to upgrade its missile arsenal

Japan and South Korea said on Wednesday that North Korea had launched a suspected ballistic missile that landed outside Japan's exclusive economic zone.

North Korea's 1st missile test of 2022, fires ballistic missile off east coast | Key details

Gulf kingdom of Saudi Arabia interestingly is building its own ballistic missiles and it is China that seems to have transferred the missile technology to the Gulf power.

Did China share missile tech with Saudi?

After Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard fired several surface-to-surface ballistic missiles during military exercise held this week, Britain condemned the act on Friday. &nbsp;

In a statement, the Foreign Office, said, "These actions are a threat to regional and international security and we call on Iran to immediately cease its activities." &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-navy-seizes-approximately-1400-ak-47-assault-rifles-and-ammunition-from-a-stateless-vessel-439401" hreflang="en">US Navy seizes approximately 1,400 AK-47 assault rifles and ammunition from a stateless vessel</a>

The report of official IRNA news agency on Friday said that 16 missiles were fired in the ongoing exercise in the southern region of the country. &nbsp;

The names of these missiles were Sejjil, Emad, Zalzal, Ghadr, Dezful and Zolfaghar. The range of these missiles was from 350 to 2,000 kilometers, the report said. &nbsp;

The missiles had successfully hit a target at the same time as 10 drones also simultaneously hit their respective targets. The missile launch in the desert was showed by State TV. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-intel-shows-china-is-helping-saudi-arabia-build-its-own-ballistic-missiles-report-439499" hreflang="en">US intel shows China is helping Saudi Arabia build its own ballistic missiles: Report</a>

Major General Mohammad Hossein Bagheri, chief of staff, Iran's Armed Forces, said the drill was an answer to Israel's recent 'massive but pointless threats' to Iran. It was a tiny part of hundreds of missiles that can hit any target simultaneously. &nbsp;

Iran also launched cruise missiles on the second day of the drill on Tuesday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

After Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard fired several surface-to-surface ballistic missiles during military exercise held this week, Britain condemned the act on Friday.

After Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard fired several surface-to-surface ballistic missiles during military exercise held this week, Britain condemned the act on Friday. In a statement, the Foreign Office, said, "These actions are a threat to regional and international security and we call on Iran to immediately cease its activities." Also Read: US Navy seizes approximately 1,400 AK-47 assault rifles and ammunition from a stateless vessel The report of official IRNA news agency on Friday said that 16 missiles were fired in the ongoing exercise in the southern region of the country. The names of these missiles were Sejjil, Emad, Zalzal, Ghadr, Dezful and Zolfaghar. The range of these missiles was from 350 to 2,000 kilometers, the report said. The missiles had successfully hit a target at the same time as 10 drones also simultaneously hit their respective targets. The missile launch in the desert was showed by State TV. Also Read | US intel shows China is helping Saudi Arabia build its own ballistic missiles: Report Major General Mohammad Hossein Bagheri, chief of staff, Iran's Armed Forces, said the drill was an answer to Israel's recent 'massive but pointless threats' to Iran. It was a tiny part of hundreds of missiles that can hit any target simultaneously. Iran also launched cruise missiles on the second day of the drill on Tuesday. (With inputs from agencies)

Britain condemns launch of 16 ballistic missiles by Iran in military exercise

India on Wednesday successfully test-fired the nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) Agni-V, amid rising tensions with China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

India successfully test-fires N-capable Agni-V ballistic missile with 5,000 km range

The United States has criticised North Korea for testing new ballistic missile. According to the reports, the missile travelled around 590 kilometres (365 miles) at a maximum altitude of about 60 kilometres.

US criticises North Korea for testing new ballistic missile

North Korea has tested a new submarine-launched ballistic missile. According to the reports missile flew 450 kms and reached about 60 kms altitude. The missile was tested near city facing Japan.

North Korea tests submarine missile

North Korea once again fired a ballistic missile into the sea. This comes hours after the U.S. reaffirmed its offer to resume diplomacy on North Korea's nuclear weapons program

North Korea: Pyongyang continues it's missile testing spree

North Korea launched one ballistic missile into the Sea of Japan, according to South Korean news agency Yonhap, citing the Republic of Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS).

Earlier, the South Korean military stated that North Korea launched an unidentified missile into the Sea of Japan, but provided no additional details. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fired-ballistic-missiles-from-train-for-the-first-time-ever-413670">Also read | North Korea fired ballistic missiles from train for the first time ever</a> 
 
The Japanese government cautioned that the projectile shot by North Korea may be a ballistic missile, and the Japanese Coast Guard issued cautions to ships in conjunction with the probable test.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | North Korean envoy defends missile test in UNGA

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/north-korean-envoy-defends-missile-test-in-unga-416550/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Japanese coast guard issued a marine safety alert to ships, although it was unclear where the weapon landed.

The South Korean presidential office planned to conduct a meeting of the national security council later in the day to discuss the launch.

After a months-long calm, North Korea resumed its nuclear tests while making conditional peace overtures to Seoul, resuming a pattern of pushing South Korea to achieve what it wants from the US.

Sung Kim, President Joe Biden's special envoy for North Korea, is scheduled to meet with US allies in Seoul in the coming days to discuss the chances of resuming negotiations with North Korea.&nbsp;

Nuclear talks between Washington and Pyongyang have been deadlocked for more than two years due to differences about trading the lifting of crushing US-led sanctions on North Korea in exchange for the North's disarmament measures.

His government has so far refused the Biden administration's overtures to begin a conversation without preconditions, claiming that Washington must first renounce its "hostile policy," which the North mostly refers to sanctions and joint military drills between the US and South Korea.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea launched one ballistic missile into the Sea of Japan, according to South Korean news agency Yonhap, citing the Republic of Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS).

North Korea launched one ballistic missile into the Sea of Japan, according to South Korean news agency Yonhap, citing the Republic of Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS). Earlier, the South Korean military stated that North Korea launched an unidentified missile into the Sea of Japan, but provided no additional details. Also read | North Korea fired ballistic missiles from train for the first time ever The Japanese government cautioned that the projectile shot by North Korea may be a ballistic missile, and the Japanese Coast Guard issued cautions to ships in conjunction with the probable test. Watch | North Korean envoy defends missile test in UNGA The Japanese coast guard issued a marine safety alert to ships, although it was unclear where the weapon landed. The South Korean presidential office planned to conduct a meeting of the national security council later in the day to discuss the launch. After a months-long calm, North Korea resumed its nuclear tests while making conditional peace overtures to Seoul, resuming a pattern of pushing South Korea to achieve what it wants from the US. Sung Kim, President Joe Biden's special envoy for North Korea, is scheduled to meet with US allies in Seoul in the coming days to discuss the chances of resuming negotiations with North Korea. Nuclear talks between Washington and Pyongyang have been deadlocked for more than two years due to differences about trading the lifting of crushing US-led sanctions on North Korea in exchange for the North's disarmament measures. His government has so far refused the Biden administration's overtures to begin a conversation without preconditions, claiming that Washington must first renounce its "hostile policy," which the North mostly refers to sanctions and joint military drills between the US and South Korea. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea fired one ballistic missile towards the sea of Japan: Reports

The Olympic torch relay set off from Fukushima on Thursday, beginning a four-month countdown to the Summer Games in Tokyo, delayed from 2020 and the first-ever organised during a global pandemic.

Casting a pall over celebrations, North Korea launched two short-range ballistic missiles before the relay began.

About 10,000 runners will carry the torch across Japan`s 47 prefectures and far-flung islands, starting from the site of the 2011 quake and tsunami that killed about 20,000 people and sent tens of thousands fleeing radioactive plumes.

"For the past year, as the entire world underwent a difficult period, the Olympic flame was kept alive quietly but powerfully," Tokyo 2020 president Seiko Hashimoto said at the opening ceremony, which was closed to spectators.

"The small flame did not lose hope, and just like the cherry blossom buds that are ready to bloom, it was waiting for this day," Hashimoto said.

After the North Korean missile launch, Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga assured reporters the national government was cooperating with Tokyo and the International Olympic Committee to host a secure Games.

"We will do our utmost in terms of coronavirus measures and continue to work with related areas to contain the spread of infections and hope to work towards a safe and secure Games," Suga said.

Japan has fared better than most countries during the pandemic, with fewer than 9,000 coronavirus deaths, but Tokyo reported 420 cases on Wednesday, the highest single-day figure this month.

The majority of the public is against the Olympics being held as scheduled, polls show.

NO CROWDS OR CHEERING

The relay, which will culminate with the Olympic opening ceremony on July 23, has been hit by several high-profile runner cancellations as celebrities and top-level athletes have pulled out, citing late notice and worries over the pandemic.

The starting ceremony was held at J-Village in Fukushima, a sports complex converted for several years into a staging ground for workers decommissioning the crippled nuclear power plant.

"For the torch relay viewing, please ensure you are wearing a mask, keep a proper distance, don`t stand close to each other and support with things like clapping, instead of using a loud voice," an announcer at the site said.

The brief and solemn ceremony - originally planned for thousands of fans as a celebration of Japan`s recovery - was closed to the public.

It featured several low-key events, including a drum concert and dance performances by a group of residents from Fukushima, followed by a children`s choir.

Members of the Japanese national women`s soccer team used the Olympic flame, flown in from Greece last year, to light the torch.

The runners, some wearing masks and white uniforms decorated with red ran out of J-Village and passed on the flame to the next runner. About a dozen staff escorted the runner, racing together and following a van guiding the relay.

"I’m convinced that, under this coronavirus pandemic, the Olympics will surely bring courage and vigour to people in east Japan, where recovery is still halfway through," Norio Sasaki, coach of the women`s soccer team that won the 2011 World Cup, said after running the first leg of the relay.

Television helicopters followed the run and the number of roadside spectators, waving Olympic flags, increased as the day went on. But they were masked and kept apart.

Organisers have said that the relay will skip areas that are too crowded, or pause until people disperse.

'YOU MUST BE JOKING'

"Fukushima`s recovery is going steadily," Fukushima governor Masao Uchibori said at the launch ceremony.

"But there are still many people who can`t return to their homes, and many difficult issues such as reviving these areas, rebuilding the lives of their residents," he said.

The torch will travel through some of the worst-hit areas first.

Japan has spent nearly $300 billion to revive the region, but many locals are apprehensive about the Games, as areas in Fukushima remain off-limits, worries about radiation linger and many who left have settled elsewhere. Decommissioning will take up to a century and cost billions of dollars.

A protester driving a silver van near the relay shouted over a loudspeaker, questioning how the Olympics could contribute to the region`s recovery.

"You must be joking," the man yelled. "Everyone knows we can`t have the Olympics," he shouted.

The organisers insist the Olympics will go ahead, but doctors and nurses have complained about the strain on hospitals and experts warn about the spread of virus variants.

Adding to the challenge, Japan was the last of the Group of Seven industrialised nations to launch a vaccine drive. Only 700,000 people have been inoculated so far, most of the medical workers.

The Olympic torch relay set off from Fukushima on Thursday, beginning a four-month countdown to the Summer Games in Tokyo, delayed from 2020 and the first-ever organised during a global pandemic.

The Olympic torch relay set off from Fukushima on Thursday, beginning a four-month countdown to the Summer Games in Tokyo, delayed from 2020 and the first-ever organised during a global pandemic. Casting a pall over celebrations, North Korea launched two short-range ballistic missiles before the relay began. About 10,000 runners will carry the torch across Japan`s 47 prefectures and far-flung islands, starting from the site of the 2011 quake and tsunami that killed about 20,000 people and sent tens of thousands fleeing radioactive plumes. "For the past year, as the entire world underwent a difficult period, the Olympic flame was kept alive quietly but powerfully," Tokyo 2020 president Seiko Hashimoto said at the opening ceremony, which was closed to spectators. "The small flame did not lose hope, and just like the cherry blossom buds that are ready to bloom, it was waiting for this day," Hashimoto said. After the North Korean missile launch, Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga assured reporters the national government was cooperating with Tokyo and the International Olympic Committee to host a secure Games. "We will do our utmost in terms of coronavirus measures and continue to work with related areas to contain the spread of infections and hope to work towards a safe and secure Games," Suga said. Japan has fared better than most countries during the pandemic, with fewer than 9,000 coronavirus deaths, but Tokyo reported 420 cases on Wednesday, the highest single-day figure this month. The majority of the public is against the Olympics being held as scheduled, polls show. NO CROWDS OR CHEERING The relay, which will culminate with the Olympic opening ceremony on July 23, has been hit by several high-profile runner cancellations as celebrities and top-level athletes have pulled out, citing late notice and worries over the pandemic. The starting ceremony was held at J-Village in Fukushima, a sports complex converted for several years into a staging ground for workers decommissioning the crippled nuclear power plant. "For the torch relay viewing, please ensure you are wearing a mask, keep a proper distance, don`t stand close to each other and support with things like clapping, instead of using a loud voice," an announcer at the site said. The brief and solemn ceremony - originally planned for thousands of fans as a celebration of Japan`s recovery - was closed to the public. It featured several low-key events, including a drum concert and dance performances by a group of residents from Fukushima, followed by a children`s choir. Members of the Japanese national women`s soccer team used the Olympic flame, flown in from Greece last year, to light the torch. The runners, some wearing masks and white uniforms decorated with red ran out of J-Village and passed on the flame to the next runner. About a dozen staff escorted the runner, racing together and following a van guiding the relay. "I’m convinced that, under this coronavirus pandemic, the Olympics will surely bring courage and vigour to people in east Japan, where recovery is still halfway through," Norio Sasaki, coach of the women`s soccer team that won the 2011 World Cup, said after running the first leg of the relay. Television helicopters followed the run and the number of roadside spectators, waving Olympic flags, increased as the day went on. But they were masked and kept apart. Organisers have said that the relay will skip areas that are too crowded, or pause until people disperse. 'YOU MUST BE JOKING' "Fukushima`s recovery is going steadily," Fukushima governor Masao Uchibori said at the launch ceremony. "But there are still many people who can`t return to their homes, and many difficult issues such as reviving these areas, rebuilding the lives of their residents," he said. The torch will travel through some of the worst-hit areas first. Japan has spent nearly $300 billion to revive the region, but many locals are apprehensive about the Games, as areas in Fukushima remain off-limits, worries about radiation linger and many who left have settled elsewhere. Decommissioning will take up to a century and cost billions of dollars. A protester driving a silver van near the relay shouted over a loudspeaker, questioning how the Olympics could contribute to the region`s recovery. "You must be joking," the man yelled. "Everyone knows we can`t have the Olympics," he shouted. The organisers insist the Olympics will go ahead, but doctors and nurses have complained about the strain on hospitals and experts warn about the spread of virus variants. Adding to the challenge, Japan was the last of the Group of Seven industrialised nations to launch a vaccine drive. Only 700,000 people have been inoculated so far, most of the medical workers.

Olympics torch relay starts in Fukushima as North Korea launches missiles

North Korea fired two suspected ballistic missiles into the sea Thursday, in its first substantive provocation to the new US administration of Joe Biden.

They may have been ballistic missiles, a spokesman for Japan's defence ministry said. "It has not fallen within Japanese territory and is not believed to have come down within Japan's exclusive economic zone," he said.

North Korea's ballistic missiles are banned under United Nations Security Council Resolutions, and if the launch is confirmed it would represent a new challenge to Biden's efforts to engage with Pyongyang, which have so far been rebuffed.

South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff reported at least two "unidentified projectiles" were fired into the sea from North Korea's South Hamgyong Province on the east coast.

South Korean and US&nbsp;intelligence authorities were analysing the data of the launch for additional information, the JCS said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-tested-two-short-range-missiles-white-house-372639">Also read |&nbsp;North Korea tested two short-range missiles: White House</a>

Earlier the Japanese coast guard warned ships against coming close to any fallen objects and instead asked them to provide information to the coast guard.

Over the weekend North Korea fired two short-range cruise missiles, US and South Korean officials said, but Biden played down&nbsp;those tests as "business as usual" and officials in Washington said they were still open to dialogue with Pyongyang.

Biden's diplomatic overtures to North Korea have gone unanswered, and Pyongyang said it would not engage until Washington drops hostile policies, including carrying out military drills with South Korea.

The nuclear-armed North has a long history of using weapons tests to ramp up tensions, in a carefully calibrated process to try to forward its objectives.

Donald Trump's first year in office was marked by a series of escalating launches, accompanied by a war of words between him and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Pyongyang had been biding its time since the new administration took office, not even officially acknowledging its existence until last week.

(with inputs)

North Korea fired two suspected ballistic missiles into the sea Thursday, in its first substantive provocation to the new US administration of Joe Biden. They may have been ballistic missiles, a spokesman for Japan's defence ministry said.

North Korea fired two suspected ballistic missiles into the sea Thursday, in its first substantive provocation to the new US administration of Joe Biden. They may have been ballistic missiles, a spokesman for Japan's defence ministry said. "It has not fallen within Japanese territory and is not believed to have come down within Japan's exclusive economic zone," he said. North Korea's ballistic missiles are banned under United Nations Security Council Resolutions, and if the launch is confirmed it would represent a new challenge to Biden's efforts to engage with Pyongyang, which have so far been rebuffed. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff reported at least two "unidentified projectiles" were fired into the sea from North Korea's South Hamgyong Province on the east coast. South Korean and US intelligence authorities were analysing the data of the launch for additional information, the JCS said in a statement. Also read | North Korea tested two short-range missiles: White House Earlier the Japanese coast guard warned ships against coming close to any fallen objects and instead asked them to provide information to the coast guard. Over the weekend North Korea fired two short-range cruise missiles, US and South Korean officials said, but Biden played down those tests as "business as usual" and officials in Washington said they were still open to dialogue with Pyongyang. Biden's diplomatic overtures to North Korea have gone unanswered, and Pyongyang said it would not engage until Washington drops hostile policies, including carrying out military drills with South Korea. The nuclear-armed North has a long history of using weapons tests to ramp up tensions, in a carefully calibrated process to try to forward its objectives. Donald Trump's first year in office was marked by a series of escalating launches, accompanied by a war of words between him and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Pyongyang had been biding its time since the new administration took office, not even officially acknowledging its existence until last week. (with inputs)

North Korea fires suspected ballistic missile into the sea, reports say

Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) held a new missile drill, during which it successfully fired ballistic missiles in the Indian Ocean over a distance of 1,800 km.

"One of our main purposes in defence policies and strategies is to be able to hit the enemy's warships, including aircraft carriers and battle cruisers, with long-range ballistic missiles," Xinhua news agency quoted Hossein Salami, IRGC's commander in chief, as saying.

According to official news agency IRNA, the manoeuver, codenamed 'Great Prophet-15', consisted of the detection of hostile mock warships by the surveillance systems of the IRGC's Aerospace Force, and their destruction using ballistic missiles of various classes within a 1,800 km range.

Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces Mohammad Baqeri also attended the war-game, and issued a warning against any hostile threat to Iran's national interests.

To this account, France's foreign minister said Iran was in the process of building up its nuclear weapons capacity and it is urgent that Tehran and Washington return to a 2015 nuclear agreement.

Iran has been accelerating its breaches of the nuclear deal and earlier this month started pressing ahead with plans to enrich uranium to 20 per cent fissile strength at its underground Fordow nuclear plant. That is the level Tehran achieved before striking the deal with world powers to contain its disputed nuclear ambitions.

The Islamic Republic's breaches of the nuclear agreement since President Donald Trump withdrew the United States from it in 2018 and subsequently imposed sanctions on Tehran may complicate efforts by President-elect Joe Biden, who takes office on Jan. 20, to rejoin the pact.

Iran, however, denies any intent to weaponise its nuclear programme.

Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) held a new missile drill, during which it successfully fired ballistic missiles in the Indian Ocean over a distance of 1,800 km.

Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) held a new missile drill, during which it successfully fired ballistic missiles in the Indian Ocean over a distance of 1,800 km. "One of our main purposes in defence policies and strategies is to be able to hit the enemy's warships, including aircraft carriers and battle cruisers, with long-range ballistic missiles," Xinhua news agency quoted Hossein Salami, IRGC's commander in chief, as saying. According to official news agency IRNA, the manoeuver, codenamed 'Great Prophet-15', consisted of the detection of hostile mock warships by the surveillance systems of the IRGC's Aerospace Force, and their destruction using ballistic missiles of various classes within a 1,800 km range. Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces Mohammad Baqeri also attended the war-game, and issued a warning against any hostile threat to Iran's national interests. To this account, France's foreign minister said Iran was in the process of building up its nuclear weapons capacity and it is urgent that Tehran and Washington return to a 2015 nuclear agreement. Iran has been accelerating its breaches of the nuclear deal and earlier this month started pressing ahead with plans to enrich uranium to 20 per cent fissile strength at its underground Fordow nuclear plant. That is the level Tehran achieved before striking the deal with world powers to contain its disputed nuclear ambitions. The Islamic Republic's breaches of the nuclear agreement since President Donald Trump withdrew the United States from it in 2018 and subsequently imposed sanctions on Tehran may complicate efforts by President-elect Joe Biden, who takes office on Jan. 20, to rejoin the pact. Iran, however, denies any intent to weaponise its nuclear programme.

Iran's IRGC fires ballistic missiles in Indian Ocean

According to experts the new missile North Korea put on show at a military parade is an explicit threat to US defences and an implicit challenge to both the current and next American president.

North Korea's explicit threat to US, new ballistic missile unveiled

North Korea fired what appeared to be two short-range ballistic missiles off its east coast on Sunday, the fourth such launch this month as the world battles the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Two projectiles were fired eastwards from the port city of Wonsan and flew 230 kilometres (143 miles) into the Sea of Japan -- also known as the East Sea -- at a maximum altitude of 30 kilometres, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement.

"Such military action by North Korea is an extremely inappropriate act when the entire world is having difficulties due to the COVID-19 outbreak," they added.

Tokyo's defence ministry said the "ballistic missile-like objects" did not cross into Japanese waters or the country's exclusive economic zone.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-rips-into-lamestream-media-amid-rising-covid-19-cases-in-us-289147" hreflang="en">Trump rips into 'lamestream media' amid rising COVID-19 cases in US</a>

The latest launch by Pyongyang comes as a prolonged hiatus in disarmament talks with the United States drags on.

A little over a week ago, the nuclear-armed North fired what were believed to be two short-range ballistic missile, describing them as a new "tactical guided weapon".

A day later, North Korean state media announced that US President Donald Trump had sent a letter to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un detailing a plan to develop ties.

The report cited Kim's powerful sister Kim Yo Jong, who warned that the apparently good personal relationship between the two leaders would not be enough to foster broader relations.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/world/trump-requests-virus-test-kits-from-south-korea-seoul-288559" hreflang="en">Trump requests virus test kits from South Korea: Seoul</a>

"In the letter, he... explained his plan to propel the relations between the two countries of the DPRK and the US and expressed his intent to render cooperation in the anti-epidemic work," an apparent reference to the coronavirus pandemic, she said in the statement reported by the North's Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

A senior US administration official confirmed Trump had sent a letter to Kim, "consistent with his efforts to engage global leaders during the ongoing pandemic".

North Korea has one of the few remaining countries in the world yet to report a case of novel coronavirus infection.&nbsp;

But the outbreak has turned into a major international crisis, with more than 640,000 confirmed cases and 30,000 dead worldwide.

Negotiations deadlocked 
Analysts say the North has been continuing to refine its weapons capabilities more than a year after a summit between Kim and Trump broke down in Hanoi.&nbsp; 
 
Negotiations have since been deadlocked over sanctions relief and what the North would be willing to give up in return.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-two-ballistic-missiles-into-sea-287741" hreflang="en">North Korea fires two 'ballistic missiles' into sea</a> 
 
Pyongyang set a unilateral end-2019 deadline for Washington to offer fresh concessions, and in late December, Kim declared his country no longer considered itself bound by moratoriums on nuclear and intercontinental ballistic missile tests. 
 
North Korea is under multiple sets of United Nations, US and other sanctions over its weapons programmes. 
 
Heightened tensions in 2017 were followed by two years of nuclear diplomacy between Pyongyang and Washington, including three meetings between Kim and US President Donald Trump, but little tangible progress was made.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

North Korea fired what appeared to be two short-range ballistic missiles off its east coast on Sunday, the fourth such launch this month as the world battles the coronavirus pandemic.

North Korea fired what appeared to be two short-range ballistic missiles off its east coast on Sunday, the fourth such launch this month as the world battles the coronavirus pandemic. Two projectiles were fired eastwards from the port city of Wonsan and flew 230 kilometres (143 miles) into the Sea of Japan -- also known as the East Sea -- at a maximum altitude of 30 kilometres, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement. "Such military action by North Korea is an extremely inappropriate act when the entire world is having difficulties due to the COVID-19 outbreak," they added. Tokyo's defence ministry said the "ballistic missile-like objects" did not cross into Japanese waters or the country's exclusive economic zone. Also read: Trump rips into 'lamestream media' amid rising COVID-19 cases in US The latest launch by Pyongyang comes as a prolonged hiatus in disarmament talks with the United States drags on. A little over a week ago, the nuclear-armed North fired what were believed to be two short-range ballistic missile, describing them as a new "tactical guided weapon". A day later, North Korean state media announced that US President Donald Trump had sent a letter to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un detailing a plan to develop ties. The report cited Kim's powerful sister Kim Yo Jong, who warned that the apparently good personal relationship between the two leaders would not be enough to foster broader relations. Also read: Trump requests virus test kits from South Korea: Seoul "In the letter, he... explained his plan to propel the relations between the two countries of the DPRK and the US and expressed his intent to render cooperation in the anti-epidemic work," an apparent reference to the coronavirus pandemic, she said in the statement reported by the North's Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). A senior US administration official confirmed Trump had sent a letter to Kim, "consistent with his efforts to engage global leaders during the ongoing pandemic". North Korea has one of the few remaining countries in the world yet to report a case of novel coronavirus infection. But the outbreak has turned into a major international crisis, with more than 640,000 confirmed cases and 30,000 dead worldwide. Negotiations deadlocked Analysts say the North has been continuing to refine its weapons capabilities more than a year after a summit between Kim and Trump broke down in Hanoi. Negotiations have since been deadlocked over sanctions relief and what the North would be willing to give up in return. Also read: North Korea fires two 'ballistic missiles' into sea Pyongyang set a unilateral end-2019 deadline for Washington to offer fresh concessions, and in late December, Kim declared his country no longer considered itself bound by moratoriums on nuclear and intercontinental ballistic missile tests. North Korea is under multiple sets of United Nations, US and other sanctions over its weapons programmes. Heightened tensions in 2017 were followed by two years of nuclear diplomacy between Pyongyang and Washington, including three meetings between Kim and US President Donald Trump, but little tangible progress was made.

North Korea fires two 'ballistic missiles' into sea: Seoul

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../fatf-european-union-offers-technical-assistance- to-pakistan-262766">Pakistan</a> on Monday claimed that it has conducted a successful training launch of surface-to-surface ballistic missile Shaheen-1.

Director-General Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Major General Asif Ghafoor, in a tweet, said that the missile is "capable of delivering all types of warheads upto a range of 650 kilometres".

Also&nbsp;Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-pakistan-test-fires-shaheen-1-nuclear-missile-263238">Gravitas: Pakistan Test-Fires Shaheen-1 Nuclear Missile</a>

"Pakistan successfully conducted the training launch of SSBM. Shaheen-1 capable of delivering all types of warheads upto a range of 650 KMs," the head of the military's media wing tweeted.

The launch was aimed at testing the operational readiness of Army Strategic Forces Command (ASFC) ensuring Pakistan's credible minimum deterrence, Ghafoor added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-pakistan-tests-ballistic-missile-shaheen-1-262986">WION Dispatch: Pakistan Tests Ballistic Missile Shaheen-1</a>

The missile hit its target in the Arabian Sea. The two-stage missile can carry nuclear and conventional warheads and strike with a high degree of accuracy.

Pakistan has two other medium-range ballistic missiles, the Shaheen-II and the Ghauri. The Ghauri is currently operationally deployed.

Two other ballistic missiles, the Shaheen-III and the Ababeel, are currently under development by the National Development Complex.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-says-it-wants-peace-with-india-conducts-missile-test-221031">&nbsp;Pakistan says it wants peace with India, conducts missile test</a>

The missile launch came after India's state-funded <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../defence-ministry-clears-rs-3300-crore- acquisitions-including-anti-tank-missiles-257375">DRDO</a> successfully conducted the first night trial of its nuclear-capable intermediate-range ballistic missile Agni-II off the Odisha coast in the Bay of Bengal on Saturday.

Earlier this year, Pakistan had successfully held a night training test-launch of its surface-to-surface ballistic missile, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../after-failure-at-diplomatic-front-pakistan-test- fires-ghaznavi-missile-246365">Ghaznavi</a>.

Pakistan on Monday claimed that it has conducted a successful training launch of surface-to-surface ballistic missile Shaheen-1. Director-General Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Major General Asif Ghafoor, in a tweet, said that the missile is "capable of delivering all types of warheads upto a range of 650 kilometres".

Pakistan on Monday claimed that it has conducted a successful training launch of surface-to-surface ballistic missile Shaheen-1. Director-General Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Major General Asif Ghafoor, in a tweet, said that the missile is "capable of delivering all types of warheads upto a range of 650 kilometres". Also Read: Gravitas: Pakistan Test-Fires Shaheen-1 Nuclear Missile "Pakistan successfully conducted the training launch of SSBM. Shaheen-1 capable of delivering all types of warheads upto a range of 650 KMs," the head of the military's media wing tweeted. The launch was aimed at testing the operational readiness of Army Strategic Forces Command (ASFC) ensuring Pakistan's credible minimum deterrence, Ghafoor added. Also Read: WION Dispatch: Pakistan Tests Ballistic Missile Shaheen-1 The missile hit its target in the Arabian Sea. The two-stage missile can carry nuclear and conventional warheads and strike with a high degree of accuracy. Pakistan has two other medium-range ballistic missiles, the Shaheen-II and the Ghauri. The Ghauri is currently operationally deployed. Two other ballistic missiles, the Shaheen-III and the Ababeel, are currently under development by the National Development Complex. Also Read: Pakistan says it wants peace with India, conducts missile test The missile launch came after India's state-funded DRDO successfully conducted the first night trial of its nuclear-capable intermediate-range ballistic missile Agni-II off the Odisha coast in the Bay of Bengal on Saturday. Earlier this year, Pakistan had successfully held a night training test-launch of its surface-to-surface ballistic missile, Ghaznavi.

Pakistan launches surface-to-surface Ballistic missile Shaheen-1

Seeking to enhance the firepower of Army and Air Force, India has started developing a 200-km strike range tactical ballistic missile 'Pranash'.

"The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has started working on the development of the 200-km strike range Pranash ballistic missile which would be armed with conventional warheads," Defence officials said.

The missile is an advanced version of the 150-km strike range Prahar missile which was being developed for tactical missions.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-unveils-ballistic-missile-new-generation-engines-279585">Iran unveils ballistic missile, 'new generation' engines</a>

The surface-to-surface ballistic missile will be of use for the Air Force and Army.

The trials of the missile would be conducted in next couple of years and the single-stage solid-propellant missile would also be readied for exports to friendly foreign countries as its strike range is within the permissible limits of international regimes on missile sales.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Seeking to enhance the firepower of Army and Air Force, India has started developing a 200-km strike range tactical ballistic missile 'Pranash'. "The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has started working on the development of the 200-km strike range Pranash ballistic missile which would be armed with conventional warheads," Defence officials said.

Seeking to enhance the firepower of Army and Air Force, India has started developing a 200-km strike range tactical ballistic missile 'Pranash'. "The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has started working on the development of the 200-km strike range Pranash ballistic missile which would be armed with conventional warheads," Defence officials said. The missile is an advanced version of the 150-km strike range Prahar missile which was being developed for tactical missions. Also read: Iran unveils ballistic missile, 'new generation' engines The surface-to-surface ballistic missile will be of use for the Air Force and Army. The trials of the missile would be conducted in next couple of years and the single-stage solid-propellant missile would also be readied for exports to friendly foreign countries as its strike range is within the permissible limits of international regimes on missile sales.

India developing new 200-km strike range Pranash ballistic missile

Iran's Revolutionary Guards unveiled Sunday a short-range ballistic missile that they said can be powered by a "new generation" of engines designed to put satellites into orbit.

The Guards' Sepahnews website said the Raad-500 missile was equipped with new Zoheir engines made of composite materials lighter than on earlier steel models.

It also unveiled Salman engines made of the same materials but with a "movable nozzle" for the delivery of satellites into space.

The Raad was "a new generation missile that has half the weight of a Fateh-110 missile but with 200 kilometres more range," it added.

The Fateh-110 is a ballistic ground-to-ground missile first unveiled in 2002. Its latest generation has a range of 300 kilometres (186 miles).

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-to-prevent-war-iran-must-increase-its-military-might-ayatollah-ali-khamenei-279499">To prevent war, Iran must increase its military might - Ayatollah Ali Khamenei</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-confirms-two-missiles-fired-at-ukrainian-jet-275710/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander Major General Hossein Salami unveiled the missile and engines alongside IRGC aerospace chief Brigadier General Amirali Hajizadeh.

"The complicated achievements on the bleeding edge of global technology that were unveiled today are our key to entering space," Salami said.

Salami noted the movable nozzle on the new engine allowed "manoeuvrability beyond the atmosphere" and amounted to a "leap in modern missile technology".

The new technologies that made the missiles "cheaper, lighter, faster and more precise" could be applied to all of Iran's missile classes, he added.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-to-launch-satellite-us-says-programme-linked-to-missiles-279563">Iran to launch satellite; US says programme linked to missiles</a>

Tensions between Iran and its arch foe the United States have soared since May 2018 when US President Donald Trump withdrew from a nuclear deal that offered Tehran sanctions relief in return for curbs to prevent it acquiring nuclear weapons.

Washington says it seeks to rein in Iran's ballistic missile programme as well as its "destabilising behaviour" in the region.

It has since slapped crippling sanctions on Iran as part of its "maximum pressure" campaign, with Tehran hitting back by progressively rolling back commitments to the nuclear deal.

The US has also raised concerns in the past about Iran's satellite programme, saying the launch of a carrier rocket in January 2019 amounted to a violation of curbs on its development of ballistic missiles.

Iran maintains it has no intention of acquiring nuclear weapons, and says its aerospace activities are peaceful and comply with a UN Security Council resolution.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards unveiled Sunday a short-range ballistic missile that they said can be powered by a "new generation" of engines designed to put satellites into orbit.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards unveiled Sunday a short-range ballistic missile that they said can be powered by a "new generation" of engines designed to put satellites into orbit. The Guards' Sepahnews website said the Raad-500 missile was equipped with new Zoheir engines made of composite materials lighter than on earlier steel models. It also unveiled Salman engines made of the same materials but with a "movable nozzle" for the delivery of satellites into space. The Raad was "a new generation missile that has half the weight of a Fateh-110 missile but with 200 kilometres more range," it added. The Fateh-110 is a ballistic ground-to-ground missile first unveiled in 2002. Its latest generation has a range of 300 kilometres (186 miles). Also read: To prevent war, Iran must increase its military might - Ayatollah Ali Khamenei × Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander Major General Hossein Salami unveiled the missile and engines alongside IRGC aerospace chief Brigadier General Amirali Hajizadeh. "The complicated achievements on the bleeding edge of global technology that were unveiled today are our key to entering space," Salami said. Salami noted the movable nozzle on the new engine allowed "manoeuvrability beyond the atmosphere" and amounted to a "leap in modern missile technology". The new technologies that made the missiles "cheaper, lighter, faster and more precise" could be applied to all of Iran's missile classes, he added. Also read: Iran to launch satellite; US says programme linked to missiles Tensions between Iran and its arch foe the United States have soared since May 2018 when US President Donald Trump withdrew from a nuclear deal that offered Tehran sanctions relief in return for curbs to prevent it acquiring nuclear weapons. Washington says it seeks to rein in Iran's ballistic missile programme as well as its "destabilising behaviour" in the region. It has since slapped crippling sanctions on Iran as part of its "maximum pressure" campaign, with Tehran hitting back by progressively rolling back commitments to the nuclear deal. The US has also raised concerns in the past about Iran's satellite programme, saying the launch of a carrier rocket in January 2019 amounted to a violation of curbs on its development of ballistic missiles. Iran maintains it has no intention of acquiring nuclear weapons, and says its aerospace activities are peaceful and comply with a UN Security Council resolution.

Iran unveils ballistic missile, 'new generation' engines

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/us-re-designates-pakistan-china-as-countries-curbing-religious-freedom-269447">Pakistan</a> on Thursday conducted a successful training launch of nuclear-capable surface-to-surface ballistic missile '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/after-failure-at-diplomatic-front-pakistan-test-fires-ghaznavi-missile-246365">Ghaznavi</a>', which can strike targets up to 290 kilometers.

"The training launch was part of Field Training Exercise of Army Strategic Forces Command aimed at rehearsing operational readiness procedures during day and night," the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the army, said in a statement.

The 'Ghaznavi' missile is capable of delivering multiple types of warheads up to a range of 290 kilometers, the statement said.

The launch was witnessed by Lt Gen Nadeem Zaki Manj, Director General Strategic Plans Division, Commander Army Strategic Forces Command, senior officers from Strategic Plans Division, Army Strategic Forces Command, Scientists and Engineers of the strategic organisations, according to the state-run Radio Pakistan.

"Director General Strategic Plans Division appreciated the operational preparedness of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-successfully-test-fires-nuclear-capable-ghauri-ballistic-missile-170292">Army Strategic Forces Command</a> for displaying a very high standard of proficiency in handling and operating the weapon system," the statement said.

He also "expressed full confidence in the robust Strategic Command and Control System and the capability of Strategic Forces", it added.

Pakistan test-fired 'Ghaznavi' on August 29, 2019, also, days after India revoked Jammu and Kashmir's special status on August 5.

India and Pakistan have been at odds after New Delhi abrogated the provisions of Article 370 of the Constitution to revoke Jammu and Kashmir's special status and bifurcated it into two union territories.

Pakistan reacted strongly to India's decision and downgraded bilateral ties and expelled the Indian envoy.

India has categorically told the international community that the scrapping of Article 370 was an internal matter. It has also advised Pakistan to accept the reality and stop all anti-India propaganda.

Pakistan on Thursday conducted a successful training launch of nuclear-capable surface-to-surface ballistic missile 'Ghaznavi', which can strike targets up to 290 kilometers.

Pakistan on Thursday conducted a successful training launch of nuclear-capable surface-to-surface ballistic missile 'Ghaznavi', which can strike targets up to 290 kilometers. "The training launch was part of Field Training Exercise of Army Strategic Forces Command aimed at rehearsing operational readiness procedures during day and night," the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the army, said in a statement. The 'Ghaznavi' missile is capable of delivering multiple types of warheads up to a range of 290 kilometers, the statement said. The launch was witnessed by Lt Gen Nadeem Zaki Manj, Director General Strategic Plans Division, Commander Army Strategic Forces Command, senior officers from Strategic Plans Division, Army Strategic Forces Command, Scientists and Engineers of the strategic organisations, according to the state-run Radio Pakistan. "Director General Strategic Plans Division appreciated the operational preparedness of Army Strategic Forces Command for displaying a very high standard of proficiency in handling and operating the weapon system," the statement said. He also "expressed full confidence in the robust Strategic Command and Control System and the capability of Strategic Forces", it added. Pakistan test-fired 'Ghaznavi' on August 29, 2019, also, days after India revoked Jammu and Kashmir's special status on August 5. India and Pakistan have been at odds after New Delhi abrogated the provisions of Article 370 of the Constitution to revoke Jammu and Kashmir's special status and bifurcated it into two union territories. Pakistan reacted strongly to India's decision and downgraded bilateral ties and expelled the Indian envoy. India has categorically told the international community that the scrapping of Article 370 was an internal matter. It has also advised Pakistan to accept the reality and stop all anti-India propaganda.

Pakistan conducts successful training launch of nuclear-capable ballistic missile

Iran said in a letter to the United Nations on Thursday that it is determined to go ahead with its disputed ballistic missile programme, according to a copy of the letter tweeted by Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif.

"Iran is determined to resolutely continue its activities related to ballistic missiles and space launch vehicles," Iran's U.N. envoy Majid Takhte Ravanchi wrote in the letter.

Iran said on Thursday a letter from three European powers to the U.N. Security Council accusing Tehran of having nuclear-capable ballistic missiles showed their "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-powers-letter-to-un-on-irans-missiles-shows-miserable-incompetence-javad-zarif-266483">miserable incompetence</a>" in fulfilling their commitments to a 2015 nuclear deal.

"Latest E3 letter to UNSG on missiles is a desperate falsehood to cover up their miserable incompetence in fulfilling bare minimum of their own #JCPOA obligations," Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif tweeted, referring to the deal by its formal acronym. He urged Britain, France and Germany not to bow to "US bullying".

The British, German and French ambassadors, in a letter circulated on Wednesday, called on U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to inform the Security Council in his next report that Iran’s missile programme was “inconsistent” with a U.N. resolution that had endorsed the nuclear deal reached between Iran and six world powers.

The letter surfaced at a time of heightened friction between Iran and the West, with Tehran rolling back its commitments under the deal step by step in response to Washington’s pullout from the pact last year and reimposition of sanctions on Iran that has crippled its economy.

Britain, France and Germany have sought to salvage the pact, under which Iran undertook to curtail its disputed uranium enrichment programme in return for relief from sanctions. But Tehran has criticised the three European powers for failing to shield Iran's economy from the US penalties.

The United States, Iran's arch-foe, and its Arab allies view Tehran’s ballistic missile programme as a Middle East security threat. Tehran says its missile development activity is solely defensive in nature.

Iran said in a letter to the United Nations on Thursday that it is determined to go ahead with its disputed ballistic missile programme, according to a copy of the letter tweeted by Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif.

Iran said in a letter to the United Nations on Thursday that it is determined to go ahead with its disputed ballistic missile programme, according to a copy of the letter tweeted by Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif. "Iran is determined to resolutely continue its activities related to ballistic missiles and space launch vehicles," Iran's U.N. envoy Majid Takhte Ravanchi wrote in the letter. Iran said on Thursday a letter from three European powers to the U.N. Security Council accusing Tehran of having nuclear-capable ballistic missiles showed their "miserable incompetence" in fulfilling their commitments to a 2015 nuclear deal. "Latest E3 letter to UNSG on missiles is a desperate falsehood to cover up their miserable incompetence in fulfilling bare minimum of their own #JCPOA obligations," Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif tweeted, referring to the deal by its formal acronym. He urged Britain, France and Germany not to bow to "US bullying". The British, German and French ambassadors, in a letter circulated on Wednesday, called on U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to inform the Security Council in his next report that Iran’s missile programme was “inconsistent” with a U.N. resolution that had endorsed the nuclear deal reached between Iran and six world powers. The letter surfaced at a time of heightened friction between Iran and the West, with Tehran rolling back its commitments under the deal step by step in response to Washington’s pullout from the pact last year and reimposition of sanctions on Iran that has crippled its economy. Britain, France and Germany have sought to salvage the pact, under which Iran undertook to curtail its disputed uranium enrichment programme in return for relief from sanctions. But Tehran has criticised the three European powers for failing to shield Iran's economy from the US penalties. The United States, Iran's arch-foe, and its Arab allies view Tehran’s ballistic missile programme as a Middle East security threat. Tehran says its missile development activity is solely defensive in nature.

Iran says it will continue ballistic missile programme

India on Tuesday successfully carried out a night test-firing of the over 300 km strike-range Prithvi ballistic missile off the coast of Balasore.

The test was conducted by the Strategic Forces Command.

In November India had successfully carried out night-time test-firing of two <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-test-fires-prithvi-2-off-odisha-coast-263508">Prithvi ballistic missiles</a>.

The testing of the indigenously developed nuclear-capable surface-to-surface Prithvi-2 missile was a part of a user trial by the Army.

A successful night time test firing of Agni-2 ballistic missile with a strike range of 2000 km was also carried out last month.

India on Tuesday successfully carried out a night test-firing of the over 300 km strike-range Prithvi ballistic missile off the coast of Balasore. The test was conducted by the Strategic Forces Command.

India on Tuesday successfully carried out a night test-firing of the over 300 km strike-range Prithvi ballistic missile off the coast of Balasore. The test was conducted by the Strategic Forces Command. In November India had successfully carried out night-time test-firing of two Prithvi ballistic missiles. The testing of the indigenously developed nuclear-capable surface-to-surface Prithvi-2 missile was a part of a user trial by the Army. A successful night time test firing of Agni-2 ballistic missile with a strike range of 2000 km was also carried out last month.

India successfully carries out night test-firing of Prithvi ballistic missile

The Russian military is on a mission to upgrade its nuclear arsenal.They have now tested a new intercontinental ballistic missile called the RS-12M Topol.

True to its nature, the Kremlin has revealed very little details about the missile's potential.

The test was conducted at the Kapustin Yar military range in southern Russia and that the missile hit the designated target about 2,100 kilometres away in Kazakhstan.

The visuals of the launch offer an exciting view of the launch which took place at night.

The Topols have been a loyal servant of the Russian military and was inherited from the soviet union. The NATO calls it the SS-25 sickle.

The Kremlin is planning to commission modern and more mobile versions of the missile called the 'Topol-M' in the early 2020s, thereby replacing the older ones.

The Russian military is on a mission to upgrade its nuclear arsenal.They have now tested a new intercontinental ballistic missile called the RS-12M Topol. True to its nature, the Kremlin has revealed very little details about the missile's potential.

The Russian military is on a mission to upgrade its nuclear arsenal.They have now tested a new intercontinental ballistic missile called the RS-12M Topol. True to its nature, the Kremlin has revealed very little details about the missile's potential. The test was conducted at the Kapustin Yar military range in southern Russia and that the missile hit the designated target about 2,100 kilometres away in Kazakhstan. The visuals of the launch offer an exciting view of the launch which took place at night. The Topols have been a loyal servant of the Russian military and was inherited from the soviet union. The NATO calls it the SS-25 sickle. The Kremlin is planning to commission modern and more mobile versions of the missile called the 'Topol-M' in the early 2020s, thereby replacing the older ones.

Russia aims to 'modernise' its nuclear arsenal as they test launch new Ballistic missile RS-12M Topol

Pakistan fires surface to surface missile, Shaheen-1. To know more watch the video

WION Dispatch: Pakistan Tests Ballistic Missile Shaheen-1

ballistic-missile

Ballistic Missile, News on Ballistic Missile, stories on Ballistic Missile, articles on Ballistic Missile, Ballistic Missile stories at Wion, Ballistic Missile news, Ballistic Missile latest news