KAI signs deal with SpaceX to launch next-gen midsized satellite in 2025
Korea's next-generation midsized satellite No. 2 in development is shown in this Dec. 1 file photo. Courtesy of Korea Aerospace Industries
Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) said Friday it has signed a deal with U.S. space firm SpaceX to launch South Korea's next-generation midsized satellite No. 2 in 2025.
It marks KAI's second deal with SpaceX following a similar arrangement for the launch of the next-generation midsized satellite No. 4 signed in July of 2021. Financial terms of the deal weren't disclosed.
Following the latest deal, KAI plans to launch both satellites into space on board the U.S. company's Falcon 9 rocket. The satellites will be used in state projects, such as land resource management and disaster response missions.
KAI said the next-generation medium-sized satellite No. 2 had experienced delays in its launch due to external factors, such as the Russia-Ukraine war. The SpaceX deal was reached in collaboration with the government to prevent further delays in the launch, it added. (Yonhap)