On October 11, 2006 David Wright, co-director and senior scientist in the Global Security program, released a statement, "North Korean Nuclear Test: U.S. Missile Defense Isn't the Answer," in response to the recent test by North Korea of a nuclear weapon.

As described in the statement, North Korea's test raises the issue of U.S. missile defenses. It also draws attention to the status of North Korea's missile program. According to the latest information available, it seems likely that the North Korean nuclear test was a "fizzle," i.e., a nuclear explosion that did not achieve the yield one would expect. Given the secretive nature of the North Korean regime, however, it is unlikely we will ever know all the facts.

Stephen Young
Senior Analyst
Global Security Program