North Korea on Wednesday launched another ballistic missile, the first to land in or near waters controlled by Japan. The medium-range missile flew about 620 miles, making it the longest North Korean launch so far, The Associated Press reported. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said the launch was a “serious threat” to his country and called it an “unforgivable act of violence.” US Strategic Command said it had detected two missiles, but one exploded almost immediately. South Korea’s Office of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said North Korea’s actions showed the country’s desire to “directly and broadly attack” neighboring countries.
The United States Air Force is flying less than historic norms and funding for acquisition and readiness is on a path to further hollow out this too small and old force to that is incapable of sustaining an enduring combat air campaign.
