N. Korea Nuclear Missile Capable Of Hitting U.S. On Launch Pad

U.S. and South Korean intelligence agencies have reportedly spotted preparations for the test launch of a Taepodong-type missile in North Korea. Sources say the South Korean government is making use of all channels to dissuade the North from going ahead with the launch. A senior official in Seoul said U.S. spy satellites have captured images of large trailers at missile platforms in the Hwadae-gun area of North Hamgyeong Province transporting large objects that are thought to be parts of a Taepodong-II missile. Experts estimate that the missiles have a firing range of 10,000-15,000 km, which would put Alaska in its radius, given the 30 m length of the objects. In preparation for the possible launch, U.S. authorities are increasing sorties of U-2 and RC-135 reconnaissance aircraft in the region.