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Graphic shows details of Sohae long-range rocket launch site at Tongchang-ri.
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MILITARY

North Korea rocket site

By Duncan Mil

North Korea is rebuilding a rocket launch pad, and engine test facility at Tongchang-ri, according to U.S. military analysts. Satellite imagery indicates construction restarted between February 16 and March 2.

Both the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) and 38 North -- two U.S.-based think tanks -- and South Korea’s Yonhap News Agency reported on Tuesday that work was underway to restore part of North Korea’s Sohae Satellite Launching Station even as U.S. President Donald Trump met with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in Hanoi last week.

The Sohae Satellite Launching Station launch pad features what CSIS researchers describe as a partially rebuilt rail-mounted rocket transfer structure. North Korea began work to dismantle a missile engine test stand at Sohae last year after pledging to do so in the first summit.

The second February 27-28 summit in Hanoi between Trump and Kim broke down over differences on how far North Korea was willing to limit its nuclear programme and the degree of U.S. willingness to ease sanctions.

Sources
PUBLISHED: 07/03/2019; STORY: Graphic News
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