North Korea is believed to have conducted a rocket engine test at its Sohae Satellite Launching Station. Intelligence reports from Wednesday suggest that construction of a very important person (VIP) observation facility for Kim Jong Un, the General Secretary of the Workers’ Party, is underway at the launch site. This development has led analysts to speculate that North Korea may be preparing for an imminent launch of a military reconnaissance satellite.
On Tuesday, NK News, a media outlet specializing in North Korean affairs, reported potential recent engine combustion tests at the vertical engine test stand within the Sohae facility. Their analysis was based on satellite imagery provided by Planet Labs, a commercial satellite company.
The report highlighted evidence of rapid vegetation die-off on the hillside opposite the engine test stand between May 12 and 14. This pattern is consistent with previous engine tests, where intense heat and exhaust have caused similar damage to nearby plant life.
Satellite imagery also revealed that a mobile protective cover at the test stand was retracted on April 23 and 24. NK News analysts interpret this as preparation for testing or routine facility maintenance.
These developments are particularly significant in light of Kim’s February directive at the 9th Party Congress, calling for the advancement of reconnaissance satellite technology.
In September, Kim oversaw combustion tests of a new solid-fuel engine for launch vehicles. Following the Party Congress in March, North Korea also conducted tests on a high-thrust solid engine, indicating a focus on improving both space launch vehicles and potentially intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) capabilities.
Intelligence sources report the construction of a structure at the Sohae facility, believed to be a VIP viewing platform. This area is likely intended for Kim, his daughter Ju-ae, and high-ranking officials to observe future launches. The building, which began construction in September, is estimated to measure approximately 30 meters (about 98 feet) in length and 12 meters (about 39 feet) in width.
North Korea’s satellite program gained momentum with the launch of its first reconnaissance satellite, Malligyong-1, in November 2023. However, the program faced a setback in May 2024 when the second satellite launch failed, leading to a temporary suspension of activities. The potential resumption of launches has raised questions about whether North Korea has acquired advanced technology from Russia to overcome previous technical challenges.
For its previous military reconnaissance satellite launch, North Korea provided advance notification to international bodies such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Analysts are closely monitoring for any similar communications that might signal an upcoming launch attempt.
