The Hwasan-31 () is a North Korean tactical nuclear warhead first unveiled in 2023.
Design Based on images released by North Korea, the Hwasan-31 is estimated to be long, wide, has a mass of and a blast yield of 4–10 kt. It may utlize a variable-yield design.
History At the 8th Congress of the Workers' Party of Korea held in January 2021, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un planned to manufacture miniaturized nuclear weapons.
Hwasan-31 was officially unveiled on 27 March 2023, when Kim Jong Un inspected ten warhead units that apparently inert. North Korea's statement did not explicitly mention it; however, accompanying photos showed the name "Hwasan-31" written on an information board. During the revelation of Hwasan-31, North Korea also revealed official designation of some short-range ballistic missiles that was tested in years before.
Capability Hwasan-31 is capable of being carried by following weapon systems: Short-range ballistic missiles: Hwasong-11A (KN-23) Hwasong-11B (KN-24) Hwasong-11C Hwasong-11D Hwasong-11S KN-25 (600 mm multiple rocket launcher) Cruise missiles: Hwasal-1 Hwasal-2 Pulhwasal-3-31 Unmanned underwater vehicle: Haeil
Strategic implication The revelation of Hwasan-31 has demonstrated North Korea’s progress towards the development of tactical nuclear weapons. References