SEOUL -- North Korea's attempted spy satellite launch Wednesday is an important piece of a five-year defense plan under which it has made substantial technological strides while international attention has been diverted by the West's rows with China and Russia.
N Korea at crossroads
North Korea seizes on global rifts to further military ambitions
Failed satellite launch can still contribute to fast-advancing missile program
The Hwasong-81 intercontinental ballistic missile is one of a number of new weapons that North Korea has unveiled in recent years. (KCNA via Reuters) © Reuters
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