On November 2, 2025, South Korea successfully launched its fifth and final military reconnaissance satellite, completing the decade-long 425 Project. This satellite, equipped with synthetic aperture radar (SAR), enhances South Korea’s surveillance capabilities over the Korean Peninsula and strengthens its independent intelligence and early-warning systems. The constellation of five satellites, integral to the nation’s “Kill Chain” preemptive strike system, significantly reduces reliance on U.S. intelligence assets and bolsters South Korea’s strategic autonomy amid North Korean threats. This milestone underscores Seoul’s commitment to military modernization and technological superiority, reflecting the increasing necessity for self-reliance in national security within a volatile regional landscape.