North Korea claims new test of spy satellite component
Pyongyang reportedly tested the spy satellite’s data transmission and reception system, as well as its ground-based control systems.
A reconnaissance satellite is among a long wish-list of new weapons systems that Korean leader Kim Jong-un has vowed to introduce to cope with what he calls US hostility.
North Korea has performed key tests needed to develop a spy satellite, in the second such tests in about a week, indicating the country intends to conduct a prohibited long-range rocket launch soon.
On Sunday, the North’s Korean Central News Agency said it had conducted “another important test” the previous day under its plan to develop a reconnaissance satellite.
It said authorities tested the satellite’s data transmission and reception system and its ground-based control systems.
The KCNA dispatch didn’t directly mention any missile or rocket launches to conduct such satellite-related tests, but apparently referred to the North’s ninth round of missile launches this year, spotted on Saturday.
READ MORE: North Korea conducts ‘significant’ test for developing spy satellite
'Coping with US hostility'
The moves come as North Korea has been carrying out a spate of ballistic missile launches in what experts call an attempt to add new weapons systems to its arsenal.
Experts also interpret the launches as a means to pressure the United States into making concessions amid stalled diplomacy.
North Korea said it tested a camera designed to be placed on a reconnaissance satellite and released space-based photos of Earth last Monday, a day after its rivals said it conducted a ballistic missile launch.
A reconnaissance satellite is among a long wish-list of new weapons systems that Korean leader Kim Jong-un has vowed to introduce to cope with what he calls US hostility.
To operate a spy satellite, North Korea must launch a long-range rocket to put it into orbit.
The United Nations bans such a launch because it is considered as a cover for testing long-range missile technology.
It’s unclear if North Korea has developed a sufficiently capable camera to be installed on a spy satellite, as the satellite photos the country released last Monday didn’t include high-resolution imagery.
North Korea put its first and second Earth observation satellites into orbit in 2012 and 2016. Those launches are believed to have contributed to a missile development program.
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