The launch came after the U.S. delivered advanced weapons to the South, and increased its allowable missile range deep into the North. Today's announcement, made in a rare New Year's speech by President Kim Jong-Un, comes as the U.S. debates also selling advanced drones to its longtime Southern ally.

The Telegraph reports the president's speech is a first by Northern leaders in 19 years.

From The Telegraph:

The 29-year-old made his address standing at a huge wooden lectern ... "Let us bring about a radical turn in the building of an economic giant with the same spirit and mettle as were displayed in conquering space," he said.