North Korea Operates Undeclared Nuclear Missile Base Near China Border

New research from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) reveals that North Korea operates a secret missile base near its border with China in Sinpung-dong, North Pyongan province. The base likely houses a brigade-sized unit with six to nine nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and mobile launchers, posing a potential nuclear threat to East Asia and the continental United States. Construction began around 2004, with the base becoming operational by 2014 and continuously upgraded since. This facility is part of an estimated 15-20 undeclared missile bases that form the core of North Korea's expanding ballistic missile strategy, allowing rapid missile deployment from dispersed sites during crises. The base has never been part of any denuclearization negotiations between the United States and North Korea, complicating diplomatic efforts. Its proximity to China adds strategic complexity by providing Pyongyang some protection against possible strikes, while raising security concerns for both Washington and Beijing.