Military Detects Signs of North Korean Military Reconnaissance Satellite Launch Preparations... Launch Possible as Early as Next Week

Our military authorities have detected signs that North Korea is preparing to launch its second military reconnaissance satellite.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

A military official stated on the 24th, "Recently, signs presumed to be preparations for the launch of a 'North Korea-claimed military reconnaissance satellite' have been identified around the Dongchang-ri area in North Korea, and South Korean and U.S. intelligence agencies are closely monitoring and tracking related developments."

Dongchang-ri in Cholsan County, Pyonganbuk-do, is where North Korea's West Sea satellite launch site is located.

Movements of vehicles, personnel, and equipment have been continuously detected around Dongchang-ri, but recently the frequency and scale have increased, catching the attention of military surveillance. Equipment necessary for tracking, measuring, and evaluating the launch vehicle's trajectory after launch has also reportedly been identified.

The military official explained that surveillance and reconnaissance around Dongchang-ri are being intensified, and preparations are underway to track the launch and intercept if the object enters South Korean airspace.

Accordingly, it is expected that North Korea could launch the reconnaissance satellite as early as next week.

North Korea launched its first military reconnaissance satellite in orbit last November and has declared plans to launch three more this year.