North Korean officials are preparing more “satellite launches,” a move that while ostensibly scientific in nature could prove to have the dual purpose of advancing its ballistic missile technology.
The Rodong Sinmun newspaper reported the Hermit Kingdom will also place into orbit a “stationary satellite”—likely a reference to a geosynchronous satellite—as part of its five-year space development program, which it says will “improve its economy and people's livelihood.” Geosynchronous orbits are incredibly complex and difficult to maintain from a technological standpoint.
Such a move could result in the establishment of a FOBS, or fractional orbital bombardment system, which is specifically forbidden by international law and United Nations treaty. This type of “space platform” wouldn’t need to drop nuclear weapons upon a target to inflict massive destruction, and such an attack would be almost impossible to stop, even with the most advanced missile defense systems.
The newspaper also stated:
Some countries have manipulated U.N. sanctions resolutions against us and hindered the sovereign country's space development. It is not a tolerable act. It is a global trend that a country seeks the economic growth with the space program.
Several news outlets, including South Korea’s Yonhap News Agency, and the U.S. government-sponsored Voice of America, have reported Defense Department assessments that new construction has been underway at North Korea’s main test launch site. Two new buildings have been constructed about 20 miles from the Dongchang-ri launch site that could serve as a control center for these satellites.
It has been more than a month since North Korea has conducted either a missile or nuclear test, despite threats and signs it could do so at any moment.
Credit to Trunews
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