Recent activity observed at the February 11 Factory, located deep within the eastern valleys of Hamhung, indicates an effort to enhance SRBM production capabilities. These short-range ballistic missiles – fueled by solid propellant and capable of high speed, low-altitude flight, and evasive maneuvers – have demonstrated their operational effectiveness in the war in Ukraine. By ramping up mass production of such advanced weapon systems, North Korea is not only positioning itself to provide further military support to Russia but also enhancing its own strike capabilities on the Korean Peninsula. The missile’s range includes key U.S. military installations in Japan, suggesting its potential utility as a bargaining chip in future negotiations with the United States. This development also signals potential intentions to export these missile systems abroad – to countries like Iran – expanding North Korea’s influence through strategic arms proliferation.