In a swift comeback after a failed attempt to launch a military spy satellite in May, North Korea has announced its intention to make another push toward its space ambitions. Japanese media reported Tuesday that the reclusive nation plans to send its second satellite into Earth’s orbit.
According to the Kyodo news agency, North Korea notified the Japanese Coast Guard of its plans to launch the satellite sometime between August 24-31.
In May, North Korea launched its first military reconnaissance satellite, but the mission ended in failure as the rocket plummeted into the sea just minutes after liftoff.
The Kim Jong-un-led country asserts that the development of a spy satellite is essential to counterbalance the increasing US military presence in the region.
Meanwhile, North Korea’s state news agency condemned the “aggressive character” of the joint US-South Korea military drills that commenced on Monday. In a commentary, KCNA warned that if these drills escalate into “nuclear provocation,” the likelihood of a “thermonuclear war on the Korean peninsula” could become more plausible.
The United States, South Korea, and Japan denounced North Korea’s May satellite launch, citing violations of United Nations resolutions prohibiting the use of ballistic missile technology by the nuclear-armed state.
Analysts emphasize the significant technological overlap between the development of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and space launch capabilities, raising concerns about the nature of North Korea’s space ambitions.
Leader Kim Jong Un has prioritized the development of a military spy satellite as a strategic imperative.
South Korea’s intelligence agency recently informed lawmakers that Pyongyang might launch a reconnaissance satellite in late August or early September, a move that coincides with the upcoming 75th anniversary of the regime’s founding on September 9.
Following the crash of the satellite in May, a comprehensive 36-day salvage operation was executed by South Korea, involving naval rescue ships, mine sweepers, and deep-sea divers.
The retrieved components of the rocket and satellite underwent analysis by experts from both South Korea and the United States.
Subsequently, South Korea’s defense ministry stated that the satellite held no discernible military utility.
