Missile Tests Issue

North Korean state media acknowledged a recent barrage of missile tests in two long reports Monday.

The missile launches detected by neighbors were part of a drill of tactical nuclear forces, according to North Korean media.

Pyongyang's Korean Central News Agency said the missile tests were in response to recent naval drills between U.S. and South Korean forces, which involved the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan for the first time in five years.

Monday is the official anniversary of North Korea's ruling Workers' Party, which claims to have been in charge for 77 years.