US detects failed North Korean ballistic missile test

The US military has detected a failed North Korean test launch of an intermediate ballistic missile near the northwestern city of Kusong, the Pentagon said on Saturday.

Pentagon spokesman, US Navy Commander Gary Ross, said: "We strongly condemn this and North Korea's other recent missile tests.

We intend to raise our concerns at the UN to bolster international resolve in holding the DPRK accountable for these actions."

Ross said the US commitment to the defense of its allies in the region, including South Korea and Japan, was "iron-clad" in the face of Pyongyang's actions.

The Pentagon said the missile launch did not pose a threat to North America.