South Korea is set to launch two additional military spy satellites this year as part of its efforts to enhance its monitoring of North Korea. The Defence Acquisition Programme Administration (DAPA) announced the plan to deploy two synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites, scheduled for launch on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida in April and November.
The move comes following the successful launch of an electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) satellite in December. South Korea aims to further bolster its space-based intelligence capabilities in response to North Korea’s increasing missile and nuclear threats. The addition of SAR satellites will enable data collection regardless of weather conditions, unlike the EO/IR satellites, which are limited by cloud cover.
By deploying these reconnaissance satellites, South Korea anticipates improved early warning systems for potential North Korean nuclear or missile attacks. The announcement from South Korea coincides with North Korea’s recent pledge to launch three more spy satellites this year, following the successful placement of its first spy satellite into orbit in November.
The development signals a potential escalation in the inter-Korean space race, as both nations seek to advance their space-based capabilities for military intelligence gathering. South Korea’s strategic move aligns with its long-term plan to deploy a total of four SAR satellites by 2025.
With tensions on the Korean peninsula remaining high, the space-based intelligence capabilities of both South and North Korea are becoming increasingly significant in shaping the security landscape of the region.
