North Korea’s missile test on Monday was in fact a drill to test nuclear force preparedness, according to local media. 

The incident raised alarms around the region after several short-range ballistic missiles were launched near Pyongyang and flew approximately 185 miles before falling in the waters between the Korean Peninsula and Japan. 

The drill’s main purpose, however, was to “demonstrate the reliability, superiority, might and diverse means” of the country’s nuclear forces and the Haekbangashoe system that serves as “a clear warning signal to the enemies” of North Korea, according to the Pyongyang Times. 

The Haekbangashoe system, which means “nuclear trigger,” included the maneuver of troops into a “counterattack posture”…