Korean Aerospace Launches Third Reconnaissance Satellite as Part of the 425 Project

Korea Aerospace Industries, Ltd. (KAI) launched its third reconnaissance satellite on December 21, using SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, USA.

This satellite is the second Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite in the 425 Project, a series aimed at launching five reconnaissance satellites to improve South Korea’s surveillance and defense capabilities.

The newly launched SAR satellite offers the ability to capture all-weather, day-and-night images, overcoming the limitations of optical satellites that rely on visible light. SAR satellites use electromagnetic waves, enabling them to provide crucial data regardless of weather conditions.

KAI has been involved in the development of SAR satellites since 2018 and plays a key role in satellite production, environmental testing, and launches. The 425 Project, when completed, will enable South Korea’s military to gather observation data within hours, enhancing the country's defense capabilities, particularly in response to North Korea's missile and nuclear threats.

This launch adds to KAI's broader space development efforts, which include the development of multipurpose practical satellites and participation in next-generation satellite projects. KAI has also contributed to the development of ultra-small SAR verification satellites and aims to establish a surveillance system using mass-produced satellites.