South Korea plans more spy satellite launches to detect North Korean missiles.

According to News 1 Korea on January 8, 2024, the South Korean Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) has announced plans to deploy two additional military spy satellites within the current year. These satellites, equipped with synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology, are scheduled for launches in April and November 2024 from the US Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, utilizing SpaceX Falcon 9 rockets.
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The South Korean spy satellites are expected to be launched using SpaceX's Falcon 9 rockets. (Picture source: SpaceX)

This initiative follows the successful deployment of South Korea's first indigenous spy satellite, launched from the US Vandenberg Space Force Base in California on December 1, 2023, using a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. The SAR satellites are designed to complement the capabilities of electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) satellites. Unlike EO/IR satellites, which are affected by weather conditions, SAR satellites can gather data irrespective of weather conditions using remote sensing systems. This dual satellite system aims to enhance surveillance capabilities, particularly for detecting early signs of potential North Korean nuclear or missile activities.

The announcement from South Korea comes in the context of North Korea's own satellite activities. North Korea has expressed intentions to launch three additional spy satellites and has previously achieved orbiting its first spy satellite, which it claims has photographed key military sites in South Korea and the US.

The upcoming satellites, referred to as units 2 and 3 of the '425 Project,' are part of South Korea's strategy to strengthen its space-based intelligence capabilities. The second satellite is undergoing testing and evaluation, with a planned completion in February 2024, followed by preparations at the launch site in March for an April launch. The third satellite, already assembled, is scheduled for a November launch following its testing and evaluation completion in September.

These satellites are being developed by the South Korean Agency for Defense Development (ADD) in collaboration with domestic aerospace companies such as Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) and Hanwha Systems. The development of these SAR satellites is noted for its contribution to the advancement of South Korea's space technology capabilities.

Furthermore, South Korea aims to secure a total of five high-resolution military reconnaissance satellites by 2025, including four SAR satellites and one EO/IR satellite. Preparations for these launches involve collaboration between DAPA, the Ministry of National Defense, the Defense Intelligence Agency, and ADD, focusing on ensuring operational readiness and compliance.