However, many experts doubted this claim.
A hypersonic missile actually refers to the payload that a rocket carries aloft.In this case, that payload could be what is called a hypersonic glide vehicle (HGV).
An HGV can theoretically fly as fast as 20 times the speed of sound and can be very maneuverable in flight, making it almost impossible to shoot down, according to experts.But a South Korean government statement Tuesday said, "Our military has the ability to detect and intercept this projectile, and we are continuously strengthening our response system." Sout Korea "expressed a strong regret over the North's launch, which took place at a time when political stability is very important."A statement from US Forces Korea said the test posed no threat to US or South Korean territory or military personnel, but "the missile launch highlights the destabilizing impact of (North Korea's) illicit weapons program."North Korea has not released any information about Tuesday's launch.