10 September 2021

South Korea to develop micro-satellite reconnaissance system from 2022

by Alessandra Giovanzanti

South Korea announced on 10 September plans to develop a micro-satellite-based reconnaissance system from 2022 to enhance its capability to detect security threats on the Korean Peninsula. (DAPA)

South Korea has announced plans to develop a micro-satellite-based reconnaissance system from 2022 to enhance its capability to detect security threats such as North Korea's mobile missile launchers.

The country's Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) said in a 10 September statement that the new reconnaissance system will comprise multiple clusters of ultra-small satellites, each operating in low-Earth orbit, and will be able to quickly identify anomalies within a designated area of detection.

The system will feature early warning capabilities, said DAPA, with the Yonhap News Agency reporting that the first set of micro-satellites is slated for launch in 2025.

The news agency also reported that KRW11.2 billion (USD9.6 million) has so far been requested to the National Assembly to fund this project.

DAPA pointed out that the micro-satellite system will be used to complement a number of larger military reconnaissance satellites being developed under the supervision of South Korea's Agency for Defense Development (ADD).

DAPA said that these larger reconnaissance satellites, deployment of which will begin next year, will be equipped with high-performance imaging radar and optical equipment that will enable them to monitor the Korean Peninsula with a “high resolution”, thus enhancing the South Korean armed forces' surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.

DAPA emphasised that the combination of the two satellite systems will enhance South Korea's early warning capabilities against asymmetric threats, adding that the two projects are also part of Seoul's efforts to develop indigenous space-based defence capabilities and reduce the country's reliance on US reconnaissance assets.

South Korea has announced plans to develop a micro-satellite-based reconnaissance system from 2022 t...

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