US Bomber Participates in an air drill alongside Japan and South Korea

Reacting to North Korea's latest missile launches, South Korea, Japan, and the United States carried out a combined air practice on November 3, 2024. Just three days after North Korea fired a strong solid-fueled intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), which analysts estimate may reach targets in the continental US, this military operation took place. According to Seoul's military, the practice comprised Japanese F-2 planes, US B-1B bomber, South Korean F-15K and KF-16 fighter fighters.

The exercise showed the ROK-US alliance's will to integrated extended deterrence against North Korea's increasing nuclear and missile threats, according to the South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff. Showcasing their fast and precise attack capacity, South Korean and Japanese fighters guided the US bomber to a predetermined region south of the Korean peninsula during the rehearsal. Known for its speed and capacity to carry up to 75,000 pounds (34,000 kg) of weapons, the B-1B Lancer was sent for the fourth time this year and took part in its second trilateral exercise.

Based on both North Korean and allied military sources, North Korea's most recent ICBM launch apparently soared higher and farther than any other missile. The missile was hailed as "the world's strongest strategic missile" by North Korea's official media. Kim Jong-un, the leader of North Korea, expressed delight with the passable test. As reports show North Korean soldiers are being sent to Russia, there are increasing questions regarding North Korea's likely participation in Russia's military operations in Ukraine.