The head of the U.S. Northern Command has expressed confidence in the U.S. military’s capability to shoot down long-range missiles launched by North Korea.

Speaking to reporters during a Defense Writers Group meeting, Navy Admiral James Winnefeld stressed the need to look at the capabilities and intent of U.S. adversaries.

He said that while there are nations with cruise missiles who don't intend to use them, there are terrorist organizations that certainly want to use them but don't have the capability.

The commander says Russia has the capability to perform such an attack but not the intent, whereas Iran and North Korea have shown intent, but evidence indicates they lack the capability.

He said that he's very comfortable saying that if he was asked to shoot down a missile at this moment from North Korea or Iran, he could do it.