North Korea says its most recent launch test was for the development of a reconnaissance satellite system, state news agency KCNA reports.
“The DPRK National Aerospace Development Administration (NADA) and the Academy of Defence Science conducted an important test on Sunday under the plan of developing a reconnaissance satellite,” KCNA reported.
The test helped the two bodies “confirm the characteristics and working accuracy of high definition photographing system, data transmission system and attitude control devices,” according to the agency.
Reconnaissance satellites are primarily used for military purposes.
North Korea did not provide any details about the projectile used to transport the cameras, while South Korea and Japan had identified it as a ballistic missile.
UN resolutions prohibit North Korea, a self-declared nuclear power, from testing ballistic missiles, some of which can carry a nuclear warhead.
Pyongyang has been racketing up tensions with a series of missile launches since the start of this year.
Sunday’s was the eighth such launch since January. North Korea recently tested a medium-range ballistic missile.
The country had previously tested short-range ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and, according to its own statements, hypersonic missiles that can fly at more than five times the speed of sound.
North Korea is believed to also be working on missiles that would be able to reach the U.S. mainland.
Pyongyang’s series of tests came as South Korea was preparing for presidential elections on March 9.
dpa
