Viewing a single comment thread. View all comments

bonyponyride t1_j986h2k wrote

We know they have nuclear capabilities, and we know they have ICBMs, but what kind of technological leap is required to make a nuclear warhead that functions in an ICBM? It seems like that would be vastly more complicated.

1

NotShey t1_j9a4fbi wrote

The main issue is miniaturization of the nuclear weapon. Basic nukes are huge, and ballistic missiles have a very limited payload. Making a nuclear warhead small enough to fit on a ballistic missile is very technically challenging.

It's unclear on where NK is on doing this, but with Chinese or Soviet assistance, it's not implausible that they would be able to do it.

3