SS-NX-13
Radio command guidance variant. Designated in Russian service as the R-27K, the SS-NX-13 had a nose cone with a terminal guidance system designed for use on both coastal radio-control installations and mobile targets at sea. It was tested in 1974, but never deployed.
In 2003, reports from North Korea indicated that Pyongyang was preparing to show a new missile at a military parade. Although the missiles were not displayed, reports by South Korean media in 2004 indicated the missiles were being deployed on mobile launchers staging out of two new bases. U.S. intelligence reportedly believes the new missile is based on the former Soviet SS-N-6 design, according to South Korean military sources.
North Korea is believed to have obtained information and technology from Russia in the 1990s, U.S. officials said. There is no indication that Russia has been involved in the new North Korean program. If these reports about a North Korean missile are accurate, it would represent a significant advancement in North Korean missile development and design, given that the SS-N-6 is considered more sophisticated than other North Korean missiles.
Pyongyang is also experimenting with a sea-based variant of the missile, for placement on and launch from ships and submarines, according to the July 30, 2004 issue of Jane's Defense Weekly. Such a development would give North Korean leaders a long-sought after way of striking at the continental United States.
The land-based version of the North Korean SS-N-6 is said to have a range of 1,350-2,160 nm (1,550-2,485 mi, 2,500-4,000 km). The sea-based variant reportedly has a range of 1,350 nm (1,550 mi, 2,500 km).
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