Background Information
North Korea has one of the most active missile test programs in the world. Since the late-1990s, the country has developed a variety of ballistic and cruise missiles, with ranges from short-range to intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM). The launches have caused international concern because of the weapons’ potential for carrying nuclear weapons, although Pyongyang has never publicly tested a nuclear warhead. The North Korean government has never publicly confirmed or denied the purpose or whereabouts of its missile-launch sites, and outside observers have had to track them through satellite imagery.
Satellite Imagery
Satellite imagery is a powerful tool for tracking the North Korean missile program. It provides a unique look at the development of North Korea’s missile-related facilities and activity. Images give insight into the progress of the missile tests, including construction, use of launch pads, and environmental changes. It is possible to trace the history of missile tests through a combination of media reports, satellite images, and other information sources that are publicly available.
Launch Pads
Most of the missile-related activity in North Korea takes place at the country’s missile launch pads. Launch pads are specially designed facilities used to launch missiles. The most well-known North Korean launch pad is the Sohae Satellite Launch Station, but there are other notable launch sites in the country as well. These include the Punggye-ri Nuclear Test Site, the Tonghae Satellite Launching Ground, the Wonsan Missile Test Site, and the Musudan-ri Launch Facility.
Sohae Satellite Launch Station
The Sohae Satellite Launch Station is located in the North Pyongan province of North Korea. It is the main missile launch facility in the country and is used for ballistic missiles, space launches, and other launch activities. The site is made up of several buildings and launch pads, which are connected by a network of underground tunnels. Satellite imagery has revealed extensive construction activity at the site, including the addition of launch pads, new buildings, and underground bunkers.
Activity at Sohae
Activity at the Sohae Satellite Launch Station appears to be increasing. In 2017, North Korea conducted 13 missile tests at the site, while in 2018 the number increased to 19. In addition to missile launches, the site has also been used for the test launch of two Unha-3 rockets, which are believed to be a prototype of North Korea’s future intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). Satellite imagery has also revealed that the Sohae station is being used to construct prototype long-range missiles, and is likely the main launch site for North Korea’s ICBM program.
Environmental Impact
The North Korean missile-launch program has raised international concerns due to its potential environmental impact. Long-range missiles have the potential to launch nuclear weapons, which could have devastating effects on the environment. In addition, the Sohae site is located near a wetland that is home to several species of migratory birds, and the launch activities could threaten the area’s ecology. North Korea has also taken steps to reduce the environmental impact of its launches, including banning fishing in the area during test launches and using non-flammable propellants.
The Future of North Korea’s Missile Program
It is uncertain what the future of North Korea’s missile program will be. While the government has not officially declared a halt to the program, the frequency of tests appears to be decreasing. As of the beginning of 2020, only one test had been conducted — a failed attempt to launch a satellite in 2019 — and no further tests had been reported. Moving forward, it is unclear how the international community will respond to North Korea’s missile program, or if sanctions and other measures will be effective in curbing it.
Effects on the Region
The North Korean missile launch sites have sparked international concern for multiple reasons. The launches have raised security concerns for the region and have been viewed as provocative by many of North Korea’s neighbors. Neighboring countries, such as South Korea and Japan, have also been affected by the launches, as they have conducted tests aimed at intercepting North Korean missiles. In addition, the launches have increased tensions between the United States and North Korea, as the U.S. has increased its presence in the region in response to the missile tests.
Expert Perspectives
Experts have expressed concern about the potential for long-term damage from North Korea’s missile activities. They have noted that the Sohae Satellite Launch Station poses a threat to the environment, and that long-term damage could result from the launches. Experts have also suggested that international cooperation is needed in order to contain North Korea’s missile program, as well as other nuclear activities. In addition, some have called for North Korea to be more transparent about its missile program and to provide more information on its launch sites.
International Response
In response to North Korea’s missile tests, the international community has imposed a variety of sanctions on the country. These sanctions are aimed at curbing the missile program, as well as the country’s nuclear program. For example, the UN Security Council passed a resolution in 2017 that called on countries to cease trading with North Korea and imposed a ban on ballistic missile-related activities. In addition, some countries, such as the United States, have imposed unilateral sanctions on North Korean entities and individuals. However, it is unclear if these measures will be effective in curbing North Korea’s missile program long-term.
Implications for the US
North Korea’s missile program has far-reaching implications for the United States. The U.S. has long sought a diplomatic solution to the North Korean issue, and has increased its presence in the region in response to the missile tests. In addition, the development of North Korea’s long-range missiles has raised security concerns in the US, as it has in other countries. The US also faces the potential for a nuclear conflict, though this is considered unlikely by most experts.
Implications for the Region
The North Korean missile program has had a significant impact on the region as well. Neighboring countries, such as South Korea and Japan, have been affected by the missile tests, as they have had to increase their defense capabilities in response to the launches. In addition, the launches have increased tensions between the U.S. and North Korea, and have raised security concerns in the region. Finally, the launches have sparked international condemnation, as the international community has sought to limit North Korea’s nuclear and missile activities.
