North Korea says missile tests simulated striking South with tactical nuclear weapons

In a photo provided by the North Korean government, Kim Jong Un inspects a missile test at an undisclosed location. Photograph: AP

North Korea’s recent flurry of missile tests demonstrated its ability to carry out strikes with tactical nuclear weapons, its leader, Kim Jong-un, has said, adding that his forces were “completely ready to hit and destroy targets at any time from any location”.

Kim, who last month said the North’s transformation into a nuclear power was “irreversible,” said the drills were “an obvious warning and clear demonstration” to the country’s enemies.