S.Korea launches military communications satellite
(Reuters)
Updated: 2006-08-22 15:32 SEOUL - South Korea sent its
first military and civilian communications satellite into space on Tuesday, less
than a month after placing in orbit its first satellite that can spy on North
Korea.
A private firm launched the satellite called Mugunhwa 5 -- named after the
national flower, the rose of Sharon, from a sea-based platform in waters near
Hawaii, the defence ministry said. It is South Korea's first for military
communications.
The 300 billion won ($313.6 million) satellite was developed by the country's
military and largest fixed-line telecom and broadband operator KT Corp., the
ministry said.
On July 28, a private firm in Russia launched the Arirang-2, which is being
used primarily for geographical surveys but can also spy on North Korea, a
government information agency said.
($1=956.7 Won)
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