Satellite Images Show Progress on N. Korean Missile Base Dismantling

August 8, 2018

Washington- New satellite images show that North Korea has made progress on the dismantling of a missile base in Tongchang-ri, northwestern North Korea, the 38 North website said Tuesday.

North Koreans have continued to tear down the steel base structure of the facility, called the Sohae Satellite Launching Station, since last observed in late July, according to the website providing analysis of North Korea. They also appear to be removing fuel and oxidizer tanks from dismantled bunkers, it said.

"These activities, however, must be viewed cautiously as 'first steps' since neither are presently permanent or irreversible," the website said.

At the launch pad, two-thirds of the west wall and a third of the north wall have been removed, according to the website.

"While the launch pad activity seems to be related to dismantlement, as it stands right now, we cannot rule out the possibility that it could be the beginning of a project to modify the structure for other purposes," 38 North said.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, during his talks with U.S. President Donald Trump in June, is believed to have promised to dismantle a missile engine test site.

The website said the demolition of the test stand's concrete foundations, launch pad's gantry tower, pad foundation and exhaust deflector "would represent more permanent and irreversible actions." Jiji Press