North Korea is still a “dwarf state” both in terms of nuclear weapons and of delivery platform-related technology. This was the third test since 1998 in their project to develop an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). This last test is a partial success because it appears that the first stage at least worked successfully. Yet it would be a grave mistake to over-read their technological capabilities. (The media was reacting as if tomorrow North Korea could attack Alaska.) There is a subtle difference between launching a satellite and an ICBM; the latter requires well-developed re-entry technology as well. That’s a while away for a country that is not even yet able to put a satellite in orbit.

India needs to have its own position on the North Korea issue. This is diplomatically necessary: after all, both are Asian states, both are nuclear weapon states but outside the NPT — but India is one of the most successful space powers in the region and it isn’t in its interest to see others using space technology as camouflage for their military necessities. India is aware of the North Korea-Pakistan nexus in regard to nuclear and missile technologies and also recognises China’s soft corner for North Korea. Yet public statements appear to be not very keen to jump to any hasty conclusions — at least at this stage, when the issue is still with the UN Security Council. It is understood that UN sanctions against North Korea won’t have much meaning. In any case, Russia and China have already made their intentions clear about not backing any Security Council resolution against North Korea.

... contd.