North Korea’s Secret Missile Base Near China

A recent report from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) has revealed that North Korea has constructed a covert missile base just miles from its border with China. This base, which Pyongyang has not officially acknowledged, is situated around 17 miles from the shared boundary and is believed to host intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) that could potentially target the United States.

According to the CSIS’s analysis of publicly available data, North Korea operates between 15 and 20 such facilities to bolster its nuclear arsenal. The country has repeatedly issued threats to the West, asserting that it will take action if its national security is perceived to be at risk.

As the report outlines, during times of threat or conflict, North Korea’s missiles and launchers are expected to leave the base and execute operations from various concealed sites. This suggests a strategic plan for operational flexibility in crisis situations.

The base reportedly started construction around 2004, with operations kicking off in 2014. It possesses the capability to relocate missiles as needed and launch them from previously designated sites in case of an emergency.

North Korea’s ICBMs are capable of traveling distances of up to 15,000 kilometers, according to the Missile Defense Advocacy Alliance. Estimates suggest that the nation currently possesses around 50 nuclear weapons, with enough fissile material to create an additional 70 to 90.

While China has historically stood by North Korea, maintaining a mutual defense treaty since 1961, it has exhibited reluctance toward Pyongyang’s nuclear development. In fact, China has supported sanctions aimed at preventing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.