What are solid-fuel missiles, and why is North Korea developing them?
North Korea test-fired a intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) powered by solid fuel on Monday, South Korean officials said, in what would be the third such test this year to boost capabilities for launching with little preparation.
Seoul did not identify the specific missile, but nuclear-armed North unveiled its solid-fuel Hwasong-18 ICBM at a military parade in February and previously tested it during launches in April and July.
Last month North Korea also said it had tested solid-fuel engines for an upcoming new-type of intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM).
Here are some characteristics of solid-fuel technology, and how it can help the North improve its missile systems.
WHAT ARE SOME ADVANTAGES OF SOLID FUEL?
Solid-fuel missiles do not need to be fuelled immediately ahead of launch, are often easier and safer to operate, and require less logistical support, making them harder to detect and more survivable than liquid-fuel weapons.
«These capabilities are much more responsive in a time of crisis,» said Ankit Panda, a senior fellow at the U.S.-based Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.
WHAT IS SOLID-FUEL TECHNOLOGY?
Solid propellants are a mixture of fuel and oxidiser.
