Pyongyang, North Korea

In a show of its military capabilities, North Korea conducted a test of its underwater nuclear arsenal 'Haeil-5-23'. This move came after a three-day combined naval drill by the United States, Japan, and South Korea, which included an American aircraft carrier.

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This latest test was held to push back on the joint exercise conducted by rivals aimed at enhancing the collective deterrence and response capabilities of the participating nations against North Korean threats. 

However, it remains unclear as to exactly when the test was conducted. Reports suggest that the "Haeil-5-23" system, North Korea's nuclear-capable underwater attack drones, was tested by the defence ministry's think tank.

The underwater testing of the nuclear system took place in the waters off its east coast. 

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An unnamed spokesman from the North Korean defence ministry reportedly stated, "Our army's underwater nuke-based countering posture is being further rounded off, and its various maritime and underwater responsive actions will continue to deter the hostile military maneuvers of the navies of the US and its allies." 

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North Korea's pursuit of nuclear weapons has been a major source of tension between the United States and Pyongyang. The US has consistently opposed North Korea's nuclear ambitions, viewing them as a threat to regional and global security.

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Meanwhile, the United States has maintained a military presence in South Korea, conducting joint military exercises with South Korean forces. These exercises have often been met with strong condemnation from North Korea, which sees them as provocations.

The US has also imposed various economic sanctions on North Korea in response to its nuclear and missile programmes. 

(With inputs from agencies)