South Korea launches third military intelligence satellite

A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket has successfully launched South Korea's third military intelligence satellite into orbit. The launch took place from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, the Republic of Korea's Ministry of Defense confirmed.

This is the third launch as part of South Korea's space intelligence enhancement program. The first satellite was launched in December 2023, and the second in April 2024. According to the plans of the South Korean defense ministry, by 2025 the country will have a group of five reconnaissance satellites.

The main task of the space group is to monitor North Korea's military activity. The satellite potential is being increased against the backdrop of growing tensions on the Korean Peninsula and the development of the DPRK's nuclear and missile program.

The launch was supported by SpaceX, demonstrating the deepening of military-technical cooperation between the United States and South Korea in the space sector.