North Korea has been testing a lot of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles lately. The most recent was a rocket engine that is to be used in launching satellites, according to the country's state media.
After the successful test, Kim Jong Un urged their scientists and engineers to prepare for the launching of the satellite as soon as possible, as reported by KCNA. But Jeon Ha-gyu, South Korea's military spokesman, stated that the North's new rocket engine is likely to be used for a long-range missile.
Joel Wit, founder of the 38 North website, said that the test is "another important development pointing to the first launch of a bigger, better space vehicle to place satellites in higher orbits, which could happen in the not too distant future." The website also provided a photo that was taken on Sep. 17 showing the preparations for a rocket engine test as reported by the Huffington Post.
On the other hand, South Korea and Japan were alarmed after the North Korea claimed that they have mastered the ability of equipping ballistic missiles with a warhead. According to the editor of the U.S.-based Nonproliferation Review, Joshua Pollack, a rocket engine with 80 tons of thrust - as how North Korean media describes it - would make it a really powerful, more powerful than the previous rockets the country has shown the world before.
Moreover, the United States and China have agreed to cooperate and addressed the North Korea's fifth nuclear test to the United Nations (UN). The two countries' officials have started a discussion on with the UN for the possible sanctions resolutions as a response.
While China and North Korea are allies and trading partner, the first is becoming intolerant of Kim Jon Un's aggressive rhetoric and military actions, BBC News reported.
Read more: California to experience endless drought
