Is North Korea testing new warheads loaded with ANTHRAX for its ballistic missiles?

North Korea is experimenting with the possibility of arming warheads for its intercontinental ballistic missiles with ANTHRAX, it has been reported.

An unidentified person connected to South Korean intelligence reportedly told Japan’s Asahi newspaper that the tests are looking at whether anthrax can survive the temperatures reached during warheads’ re-entry from space.

The report is also said to state that the US government is aware of the tests – which North Korea reportedly has strongly denied and threatened to ‘take revenge’ on the US for saying it is developing biological weapons.

In a statement issued via the state Korean Central News Agency, the regime said it is party to the Biological Weapons Convention and maintains a consistent stand against the development, manufacture, stockpiling and possession of biological weapons.

<em>Denial – North Korea has reportedly denied the allegations that it is testing warheads loaded with anthrax (Pictures: AP)</em>
Denial – North Korea has reportedly denied the allegations that it is testing warheads loaded with anthrax (Pictures: AP)

The revelation comes as the UK’s Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said North Korea is currently on the way to developing ballistic missiles which could strike London, branding the country a “massive threat” and a “real danger” to Britain.

Pressed on whether the UK is making preparations to deal with North Korea if necessary, Mr Williamson said Britain has to “step up”.

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He told the Evening Standard: “This isn’t just a problem for the United States, this is a global problem. Britain has to step up in terms of dealing with it, there are threats emerging right around the world.

“Britain is global player, it is a world player. We will never hesitate to deal with aggression and threats, and that is what we have been known for doing in the past and that is what we continue to do.”

<em>Step up – Britain’s Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson, left, says Britain has to “step up” against North Korea</em>
Step up – Britain’s Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson, left, says Britain has to “step up” against North Korea

On Monday, President Trump unveiled a new US national security strategy which includes strengthening the country’s cyber defence capabilities, and highlighted the threats of “rogue regimes” like North Korea.

America has also publicly blamed the country for the WannaCry cyber attack which hit the NHS and networks around the world.