North Korea seems to be getting ready for a third attempt this year to launch a reconnaissance satellite, which could be just as controversial as its weapons tests. Previous attempts this year on May 31 and August 24 were unsuccessful when its new Chollima-1 rockets crashed into the sea.
The country has informed Japan of its plans to launch a satellite between Wednesday and December 1, drawing criticism from Japan and South Korea, citing a U.N. ban on Pyongyang’s missile development.
North Korea has launched six satellites since 1998, with two appearing to have successfully reached orbit. The last launch was in 2016, and there is still some debate over whether it transmitted any signals. The country has expressed its ambitions to launch more advanced satellites by 2020, and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has also expressed his wish to develop military reconnaissance satellites.
The Chollima-1, believed to be a new design, is thought to use dual-nozzle liquid-fuelled engines developed for North Korea’s ICBM. There are reports that South Korea has recovered parts of the Chollima-1, including satellite components, but has not released detailed findings.
North Korea’s continued satellite testing has caused concern among the United States and its allies, as it is seen as a violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions on North Korea’s ballistic missile programs. However, North Korea has stated that its space program and defense activities are its sovereign right.
In 2016, when North Korea launched its last satellite, it had not yet fired an intercontinental ballistic missile. This launch was condemned by the U.S. and South Korea as a disguised missile technology test.
Since then, North Korea has developed and launched ICBMs, and it appears committed to placing operational satellites in space. Analysts believe that these satellites would provide North Korea with better intelligence on its enemies and demonstrate its ability to keep up with other space powers in the region.
North Korea could use such satellites for targeting South Korea and Japan or for damage assessments during a war. On the other hand, if North Korea can verify with its own satellites that the U.S. and its allies are not about to attack, it might reduce tensions and provide stability. (Reporting by Josh Smith. Editing by Gerry Doyle)
