North Korea's Planned Satellite Launch Is Act Of Provocation

General Walter Sharp told congress that the military can shoot down North Korea's missile but it all depends on "if the President so directs". So we'll have to rely on someone to do the job. Luckily Japan says it will destroy the North Korean missile. Voice of America

U.S military leaders told the US Congress, Tuesday, that North Korea remains the greatest threat to peace in the Pacific region. They said the U.S. is ready to respond to any acts of provocation, including that country's planned launch of a communications satellite, which Washington and its allies in Asia say is a disguised long-range missile test.

General Walter Sharp, commander of U.S. Forces in Korea testified before the U.S. House of Representatives' Armed Service Committee that North Korea's military, poses a threat to the region and the world. "North Korea remains the world's leading supplier of ballistic missiles and related technology and remains a major proliferator of conventional weapons as well," he said.

He said North Korea's planned satellite launch that the U.S. says is actually a long range missile test is a provocative act, intended to intimidate the U.S. and its allies.

U.S. Pacific Commander, Navy Admiral Timothy Keating told committee that the U.S. is prepared for a possible North Korean missile attack and other potential threats against the U.S. "Congressman, we are up to task, I believe. We are ready to defend U.S. territory, our allies and our national interests if the President so directs," he said.