Japan, US, S.Korea conduct joint drills after N.Korea’s ICBM launch

South Korea, Japan, and the United States conducted a joint air drill in response to North Korea’s recent long-range missile test. The exercise involved a US B-1B bomber, South Korea’s F-15K and KF-16 fighter jets, and Japan’s F-2 jets. The purpose was to show a commitment to deterrence against North Korea’s nuclear and missile threats. The B-1B bomber is known for its high-speed performance and large payload of munitions. This was the fourth deployment of the bomber to the Korean peninsula this year and the second time for a trilateral exercise. The North’s latest ICBM launch was described as the world’s strongest strategic missile, and leader Kim expressed satisfaction with its success. Additionally, there are concerns about North Korean troops supporting Russia in the conflict in Ukraine.