International security

North Korea launches long-range rocket seen as covert ballistic missile test as Western powers vow to 'take action' against Kim Jong-un's rogue state

North Korea has fired a long-range rocket over Japan, drawing international condemnation.

The Pentagon confirmed the launch, which saw the rocket fly over Okinawa, where Patriot missiles had been stationed with orders to shoot it down if it threatened Japanese territory.

The U.S. and South Korea were tracking the rocket's trajectory but have provided no other details.

South Korean Press reported that the rocket launch failed - however this has not been confirmed by any official source.

North Korean state television said the satellite successfully made it into space, and that Pyongyang was planning further launches. 

A rocket was seen soaring into the air shortly after the launch. 

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe called the launch 'absolutely unacceptable' as he vowed to take action against North Korea.