S. Korean Says N. Korea Missile Ready...08/12/99

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) - The new long-range ballistic missile North Korea has been developing is finished, and the isolated communist nation is now weighing the pros and cons of a test launch, South Korea's spy chief said Wednesday. The new Taepodong II missile will have a range of up to 4,163 miles, which would put Alaska and Hawaii within reach, said Chun Yong-taek, head of South Korea's National Intelligence Service. Chun said it would take at least three or four weeks for North Korea to transport the missile and assemble it for launching at a base on the northeast coast. North Korea, which has little contact with the rest of the world, reportedly maintains a vigorous defense program despite a slumping economy and widespread food shortages.

 

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