Page 201 - Trilateral Korea Japan U.S. Cooperation

North Korea is intensively building up its weapons of mass
destruction (WMD) and ballistic missile capability. It is
believed to already possess the capability to mount nuclear
weapons on ballistic missiles and Japan is technically within
their range. It is rapidly improving its relevant ballistic missile
technologies and operational capabilities by diversifying
launch modes. In recent years, in particular, North Korea
has pursued the practical application of ballistic missiles
that fly at low altitudes on irregular trajectories, and has
repeatedly tested various platforms such as vehicles with
launch pads (transporter erector launchers), submarines, and
railroads for launching these missiles. It is believed that by
launching missiles from a variety of platforms, Pyongyang
is attempting to make it difficult to ascertain indications of
launch preparation, or to detect and intercept the missiles. It
is also believed to be pursuing research and development for
hypersonic glide vehicles (HGVs) and solid-fuel propelled
intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) with a range
that includes the U.S. mainland as a priority, and there are
concerns about future technological progress.

Closing the Gaps:
Deepening Cooperation among Three Countries

There is generally a shared recognition between Japan, the
United States, and South Korea that China and North Korea
pose threats to the national interests of each country and are
factors fatally destabilizing security of Northeast Asia. In
the increasingly deteriorating strategic environment of East
Asia, it is indispensable for all three to build their capabilities

Chapter Twelve : Trilateral Cooperation is Essential to Deter Pyongyang and Dissuade Beijing 201