HUNDREDS of US and South Korean war planes took off in the latest “provocation” of North Korea yesterday — a week after it tested a missile capable of hitting Washington.

The South Korean Defence Ministry said the five-day Vigilant Ace manoeuvres were intended to increase readiness for war.

Some 230 planes from eight bases are involved, including six F-22 and 18 F-35 stealth fighters of the US Seventh Air Force.