North Korea's "satellite" launch

U.S. intelligence indicates that North Korea has begun fueling a rocket that the North Korean government states will launch a satellite into orbit. Does any country really believe the North Koreans have that type of technology?

Japan and the United States have mobilized naval and ground forces to deal with this launch, which they believe will take place between April 4 and April 8. Today, North Korea threatened Japan with the use of military force if it attempts to shoot down its rocket. Such an attack would be ill-advised to say the least. I believe an attack would only lead to the demise of a precarious North Korea.

The U.S. believes the North Koreans may be testing a multiple stage rocket that will have the capability of reaching Alaska and Hawaii. This test may be a precursor to a future rocket that can reach the western mainland of the United States.