Hanwha Systems Collaborates with KAIST Satellite Research Institute to Develop Miniature SAR Satellite

Aiming for World-Class High-Resolution Observation Technology... Also Contributing to Countering North Korean Threats

Hanwha Systems signed an MOU for cooperation on the "Micro SAR Satellite Project" with the KAIST Satellite Research Center on the 18th at Hanwha Systems' Pangyo office. (From left: Eo Seong-cheol, CEO of Hanwha Systems; Kwon Se-jin, Director of the KAIST Satellite Research Center)

[Asia Economy Reporter Sunmi Park] Hanwha Systems announced on the 24th that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with KAIST Satellite Technology Research Center (Satrec) to collaborate on the "Ultra-small SAR Satellite Project," aiming to strengthen its technological superiority in world-class ultra-small SAR satellites.

Through the MOU signed last week, Hanwha Systems will embark on the development of high-resolution ultra-small SAR satellites. Hanwha Systems and Satrec plan to establish an exclusive business development partnership and secure independent technology in the field of world-class high-resolution earth observation satellites. Additionally, leveraging Satrec's experience in launching small satellites into space multiple times, they intend to utilize capabilities in small satellite operations such as ground station control and reception, as well as space certification.

The "Ultra-small SAR Satellite System Development" project, planned to be promoted by multiple ministries including the Ministry of National Defense and the Ministry of Science and ICT, involves developing high-resolution ultra-small SAR satellites and operational ground stations. Once the ultra-small SAR satellites are operational, they will enable all-weather image information collection over the Korean Peninsula and surrounding areas, contributing not only to disaster monitoring caused by abnormal weather but also to establishing a military reconnaissance satellite system. This is expected to enhance surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities necessary to respond to North Korea's military threats.

Seongcheol Uh, CEO of Hanwha Systems, stated, "Ultra-small SAR satellites are highly valued as surveillance and reconnaissance assets and are receiving great attention," adding, "Based on our capability to develop Korea's first ultra-small SAR satellite weighing less than 100kg with 1-meter class resolution, Hanwha Systems will continue to strengthen its R&D capabilities in the satellite sector and strive for the successful localization of ultra-high-resolution ultra-small SAR satellites."

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