North Korea is reportedly making preparations to launch its second military spy satellite into space, as disclosed by South Korea’s military on Friday. This development occurs amidst persistent tensions fueled by North Korea’s ongoing series of weapons tests.
South Korea’s military provided a briefing to local reporters, disclosing that there are clear indications of North Korea’s preparations for a satellite launch at its primary Tongchang Ri launch facility located in the northwest region of the country. Both South Korean and U.S. intelligence agencies are vigilantly observing these developments.
While the specifics of the briefing were disclosed to international media outlets such as The Associated Press, the South Korean military refrained from promptly furnishing precise details regarding the observed activities at the Tongchang Ri site.
North Korea asserted that its inaugural spy satellite, Malligyong-1, which was launched in November, allegedly sent back visual data of significant locations within the United States and South Korea, such as the White House and the Pentagon. Nevertheless, no specific imagery was made public, prompting doubts regarding the satellite’s actual operational prowess.
In November last year, North Korea achieved a significant milestone by successfully deploying its inaugural military reconnaissance satellite into space. This achievement marked a strategic move by the country to establish a space-centric surveillance system, primarily designed to counter what it perceives as military threats, predominantly from the United States. Following this successful launch, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un made public declarations outlining the nation’s intentions to further bolster its space capabilities by launching an additional three military spy satellites within the calendar year of 2024.
Over the past few months, North Korea has continued its series of missile trials to enhance its armament. Experts suggest that North Korea believes a larger arsenal would enhance its bargaining power in future negotiations with the United States.
South Korea reported last week that North Korea launched what appeared to be several short-range ballistic missiles along its eastern coastline. North Korea subsequently claimed to have conducted a test of a tactical ballistic missile featuring an innovative autonomous navigation system.