The commander of U.S. forces in the Asia-Pacific region says the United States is prepared for a "wide range of options" regarding a possible leadership change in North Korea.

Admiral Timothy Keating said in a briefing at the Pentagon Thursday that Washington has plans in place with the United States Forces-Korea and other international parties, in the event of some uncertain succession in the North.

The health of North Korean leader Kim Jong-il is believed to be deteriorating quickly after having reportedly suffered a stroke in August of last year. Reports say Kim’s 26-year-old son, Jong-un, is thought to be the most likely successor, although Keating says nothing has been confirmed.

Keating also expressed concern over the possible transfer of nuclear technology from North Korea to Myanmar. He said that any nation would be in violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions if it receives materials or assistance related to nuclear weapons from Pyongyang.

Last month, the U.S. Navy tracked the North’s Kang Nam One vessel, which was thought to be transporting illicit weapons materials to Myanmar, after it left port in North Korea.

But the ship eventually changed course for reasons Keating says remain to be seen.