On Wednesday, official media stated that Kim Jong Un ordered preparations to launch North Korea’s first spy satellite to counter U.S. and South Korean threats.
Analysts say the military satellite is part of the reclusive, nuclear-armed state’s drive to upgrade surveillance technologies, including drones, to strike targets in conflict.
North Korea stated it would launch the spy satellite in April after completing a “final phase” test in December. It posted pixelated black-and-white photographs of Seoul from the test.
Kim authorized the launch of more spy satellites and ensured the launch went through on Tuesday during a visit to the official space agency, according to state news agency KCNA.
KCNA reported satellite construction was finished but did not provide a launch date.
Kim said it was “natural” for the North to build its military deterrence, calling U.S. strategic assets in the region an attempt “to turn South Korea into an advanced base for aggression and an arsenal for war.”
Hirokazu Matsuno, Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary, stated that a ballistic missile launch would violate U.N. Security Council resolutions even if Pyongyang labeled it a satellite.
State media showed Kim and his daughter talking to authorities in front of a blurred satellite image.
North Korea has tested several missiles and weaponry in recent months, including a solid-fuel ICBM. In addition, Pyongyang has threatened “more practical and offensive” action over South Korea-U.S. exercises and ignored inter-Korean hotlines.
After five North Korean drones entered South Korea in December, South Korea sent surveillance planes to photograph its troops.
Kim Dong-yup, a University of North Korean Studies professor, said North Korea aims to use satellites to gather real-time intelligence to hit targets when mobilizing missiles and other nuclear delivery systems.
North Korea launched two “earth observation” satellites, the latest in 2016.
The satellite appeared under control, but international observers disagreed on whether it had been sent.
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