North Korea Nuclear Threats Prompt US Missile Battery Deployment to Guam

On Wednesday, the Pentagon deployed an advanced missile defense system to a military base in Guam.  This decision was made following threats made by North Korea against South Korea, Japan, and America.  The US Secretary of Defense, Chuck Hagel, stated that North Korea poses a "clear and present danger." The deployment of the battery is a major indicator that the United States is perceiving these threats as a serious concern, unlike other North Korean threats in the past.  Intelligence indicates that North Korea transported a Musudan missile, which is believed to be untested, with a theoretical range sufficient to strike all of South Korea and Japan. It is hoped that all countries will remain calm and refrain from taking action that may be mutually provocative.  North Korea has declared a state of war with South Korea, as well as threatened nuclear attack against the United States. Hagel's use of the phrase "clear and present danger" has sparked some concern, because the phrase has historically been used as a precursor to war.  However, there are no indications from the White House that this course of action is imminent.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2013/apr/03/us-missile-defence-system-guam-north-korea