LOC10:39
07:39 GMT
TOKYO, Sept 2 (KUNA) -- North Korean leader Kim Jong-un inspected a missile research institute and reviewed progress on a new solid-fuel engine for intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported Tuesday.
During his inspection at an institute under the Missile Administration on the previous day, Kim inspected the development of the high-thrust solid-fuel engine for ICBMs, KCNA said.
The new engine, which has a maximum thrust of 1,960 kilonewtons, will be used for the Hwasong-19 ICBM line and the next-generation Hwasong-20 ICBM, it added.
Kim reviewed the results of eight static firing tests conducted over the past two years and "discussed the issue of laying a foundation for specialized serial production," according to KCNA.
He also repeatedly appreciated "the development of the engine as a significant success heralding a great change in bolstering up our strategic missile forces and expanding their capabilities."
His visit came a day before he departed Pyongyang for Beijing to attend a military parade in China marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. (end)
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