A US government official has strongly condemned North Korea for its latest launch of a projectile using ballistic missile technology.

White House National Security Council Spokesperson Adrienne Watson issued a statement shortly after the launch. North Korea launched the projectile late on Tuesday, local time.

Watson described the launch as "a brazen violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions." She said it raises tensions, and risks destabilizing the security situation in the region and beyond."

She pointed out that the "space launch" involved technologies that are directly related to North Korea's intercontinental ballistic missile program.

She said US officials are assessing the situation in coordination with the country's allies and partners.

Watson said, "The door has not closed on diplomacy but Pyongyang must immediately cease its provocative actions and instead choose engagement."

The spokesperson added that the US will take all necessary measures to ensure the security of the American homeland and the defense of South Korea and Japan.