Launch of a military satellite illustrates South Korea’s effort to reduce reliance on the US while deepening cooperation
A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket carries South Korea’s first indigenous spy satellite from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, Dec. 1, 2023, Image: ROK Ministry of National Defense
South Korea’s Ministry of National Defense announced on Saturday the successful launch of its first military reconnaissance satellite from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The satellite successfully separated from its Falcon-9 rocket and established communication with a ground station. This launch is a step in South Korea’s plan to develop intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance abilities independently of the U.S.
The satellite’s development, managed by South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), involved collaboration with Korean research institutes and companies, reflecting an advancement in South Korea’s space industry. Additionally, South Korea is working on a microsatellite system for rapid monitoring and early warning to improve its surveillance capabilities and reinforce its strategic position in relation to North Korea.
South Korea’s Ministry of National Defense announced on Saturday the successful launch of its first military reconnaissance satellite from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The satellite successfully separated from its Falcon-9 rocket and established communication with a ground station. This launch is a step in South Korea’s plan to develop intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance abilities independently of the U.S.
The satellite’s development, managed by South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), involved collaboration with Korean research institutes and companies, reflecting an advancement in South Korea’s space industry. Additionally, South Korea is working on a microsatellite system for rapid monitoring and early warning to improve its surveillance capabilities and reinforce its strategic position in relation to North Korea.
Get 30 days
of free access to
KoreaPro
-
Full access to all analysis
-
The KOREA PRO newsletter, every business day
-
Daily analysis on the top story of the day
-
The ability to suggest topics for coverage by our specialist team
Be smart about South Korea
Get full access to expert analysis and opinion.
Start
now
No charges during your trial. Cancel anytime. A paid subscription will start after 30 days.
© Korea Risk Group. All rights reserved.
No part of this content may be reproduced, distributed, or used for
commercial purposes without prior written permission from Korea Risk
Group.
SHARE
COPY LINK
X
MASTODON
