A senior US military official says North Korea has the technology to mount a nuclear weapon on a missile. The official expressed the view that Pyongyang has obtained technology to deliver a miniaturized nuclear warhead on a ballistic missile.

The official made the remark to reporters on Thursday, without offering evidence to support the claim or stating the type of ballistic missiles involved.

The official added that the North may not have the re-entry technology needed for missiles to return through the atmosphere without burning up and hit their target.

The official pointed out that one of the reasons for the North's repeated ballistic missile test launches is to acquire such re-entry technology.

The comments indicated rapid progress in the North's nuclear and missile programs and showed serious concern over the matter.

The US Defense Department has officially stated that it has not confirmed the North has the technology to make a miniaturized nuclear warhead.