This new satellite is equipped with a synthetic aperture radar (SAR) system, which provides imaging of the Earth's surface in any weather conditions and at night. It became the fifth and final satellite in a program aimed at deploying five reconnaissance satellites by the end of 2025.
The South Korean defense ministry emphasized that having five satellites will allow for more timely and accurate detection of potential provocations from North Korea.
The ministry also noted that the new orbital group will significantly strengthen the country's defense and enhance the effectiveness of the deterrence strategy against North Korea. After the deployment is completed, South Korea will now be able to monitor North Korean territory every two hours.
The first reconnaissance satellite of South Korea was launched in December 2023 and was equipped with optical-electronic and infrared sensors to create detailed images. Later, three more satellites with SAR sensors were placed into orbit, and the launch of the fifth satellite completed the formation of the group.
Meanwhile, North Korea has also intensified its efforts in space reconnaissance. In November 2023, Pyongyang launched its first military satellite called "Malligyong-1" and announced plans to launch three more satellites in 2024; however, one of the subsequent launches ended in failure: the rocket with the satellite exploded shortly after launch in May 2024.
