South Korea New Spy Satellites: In a bid to enhance the monitoring capabilities of North Korea, South Korea is set to launch two advanced military spy satellites this year. The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) revealed plans to deploy synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites on SpaceX Falcon 9 rockets from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.
The launch dates are scheduled for April and November, following the successful deployment of an electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) satellite in December.
Unlike EO/IR satellites, which are limited by their inability to penetrate dense clouds, SAR satellites can collect data irrespective of weather conditions, thanks to their remote sensing systems. South Korea aims to have a total of six SAR satellites in orbit by 2025, boosting its space-based intelligence capabilities amid growing missile and nuclear threats from North Korea.
These reconnaissance satellites, when operated together, will significantly improve the detection of early warning signs related to potential nuclear or missile attacks from North Korea. This strategic move is a response to North Korea’s recent vow to launch three more spy satellites this year, including its successful deployment of the first spy satellite in November.
Also Read: Samsung Galaxy S24: A Camera Evolution Beyond Expectations
The race for space-based intelligence dominance between the two Koreas adds a new layer to the already complex dynamics in the region. As both nations escalate their space surveillance capabilities, tensions are expected to rise, underscoring the critical role of technology in shaping the balance of power on the Korean Peninsula.