North Korea Launches Rocket with First Spy Satellite, Allegedly with Technological Assistance from Russia
North Korea launched a rocket on Tuesday, attempting to place its first military reconnaissance satellite into orbit. The rocket took a southbound trajectory, flying over the sea between the Korean Peninsula and China, according to the South Korean military. The United States, South Korea, and Japan have heightened military readiness, anticipating potential debris falling on their territories and aiming to gather intelligence on North Korea’s satellite program.
The rocket, named Chollima-1, was launched from North Korea’s satellite launching station in Tongchang-ri, near the northwestern border with China. This marks North Korea’s third attempt, with previous launches in May and August experiencing malfunctions, failing to place the Malligyong-1, North Korea’s first homemade military spy satellite, into orbit.
Reports suggest that Russia provided technological assistance to North Korea’s satellite program, possibly as part of a broader incentive package related to North Korean support for Russia’s war in Ukraine. The latest launch has defied warnings from the United States, South Korea, and Japan.
The move is seen as an effort by North Korea to enhance its ability to monitor American and South Korean military movements in the region and improve its nuclear-attack capabilities. The international community is closely monitoring developments, given the implications for regional stability.
