A new report reveals that North Korea operates a covert missile base near its border with China, which could pose a significant nuclear threat to the United States and East Asia. The Sinpung-dong Missile Operating Base is located approximately 17 miles from the Chinese border in North Pyongan province. Researchers from a Washington-based think tank released the findings on Wednesday.

The report indicates that the base may house between six to nine advanced intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), along with mobile launchers and thousands of military personnel. While these missiles are not expected to be equipped with nuclear warheads, they are capable of carrying them. The report states, "These missiles pose a potential nuclear threat to East Asia and the continental United States."

This previously undisclosed site was identified through a combination of satellite imagery, interviews with defectors, and declassified documents. It is one of an estimated 15 to 20 missile bases in North Korea that have not been publicly acknowledged. The Sinpung-dong base began construction around 2004 and was operational by 2014. Satellite images suggest that it remains active and well-maintained.

Experts believe the base could store North Korea's nuclear-capable Hwasong-15 or Hwasong-18 ICBMs, or possibly a new missile type that has yet to be revealed. The report warns that during crises or conflicts, these missiles and their launchers could be deployed from the base to pre-surveyed locations for launch operations.

The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute estimates that North Korea has developed about 50 nuclear warheads and has enough fissile material to create up to 40 additional warheads. Since the collapse of denuclearization talks in 2019, North Korea has intensified its weapons development, defying international sanctions.

Additionally, North Korea has strengthened its ties with Russia, reportedly sending troops to assist in the conflict in Ukraine. This cooperation raises concerns that Russia may provide technological support to North Korea's weapons programs.

The report highlights the strategic implications of the base's location. Its proximity to China may deter potential military strikes from the U.S. and its allies, as an attack could inadvertently affect China. Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha University in Seoul, noted, "By building bases so close to China, North Korea may also seek to leverage the political risk and uncertainty of Beijing’s response in order to deter an attack."

As tensions rise, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for a rapid expansion of the country's nuclear capabilities, particularly in response to U.S.-South Korea military exercises, which Pyongyang perceives as threats. Despite interest from former President Donald Trump in resuming diplomatic talks, North Korea has rejected the notion, insisting that the U.S. must recognize it as a nuclear power.