North Korea has a a flair for the dramatic that often manifests itself in missile tests, the most notable example being the multiple-launch outburst nearly three years ago on July 4 - the day the United States by tradition marks its independence with fireworks displays. Pyongyang's most recent test lacked the high symbolism of that pyrotechnical extravaganza, but from a strategic standpoint its timing was far more significant: It came as the United States was unveiling a revamped missile defense investment strategy and as Japan was nearing completion of a new space policy that is widely expected to emphasize military applications, including surveillance and missile warning.
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