The Limits of Extended Deterrence and the Risk of Nuclear Proliferation in the North West Pacific

摘要

In February 2013 the Democratic Republic of North Korea (DPRK) detonated its third nuclear explosion in a tunnel under a mountain. Seismic analysis suggests the device detonated in February had a yield of 6-7 kilotons. The DPRK claimed that this was a successful test of a miniaturised warhead. Like every other statement that comes from Pyongyang this may or may not be credible. But whether it is true or not, the statement confirms where the clear intent of the Pyongyang regime lies. It plans to arm its existing long-range missiles with nuclear warheads and defend itself by threatening others in the region and beyond.