CHINESE LPAR
The above image depicts the construction site for a previously unknown LPAR in western China. The circular base for the rotating radar mount can clearly be seen. Digital Globe imagery from October of 2005 depicts the facility in a completed state, including the radar mounting. This image can be seen here, although the image viewer must be zoomed in to display the correct, uncensored image. The purpose of this radar system is not known, nor can it be determined by imagery alone. The location may provide some insight, as it is positioned in the western region. It may be positioned there to monitor Russian ballistic missile trials activity, or missile testing at Sary Shagan. Alternatively, it may be a space surveillance system intended to serve as a component in the developmental ASAT system. Whatever the purpose, the appearance of an LPAR in a relatively remote area is certainly significant.
ADDITIONAL DISCUSSION
Feel free to discuss the current Image of the Week at the IMINT & Analysis Forum Image of the Week discussion thread found here.
SOURCES
-Satellite imagery provided courtesy of Google Earth
The above image depicts the construction site for a previously unknown LPAR in western China. The circular base for the rotating radar mount can clearly be seen. Digital Globe imagery from October of 2005 depicts the facility in a completed state, including the radar mounting. This image can be seen here, although the image viewer must be zoomed in to display the correct, uncensored image. The purpose of this radar system is not known, nor can it be determined by imagery alone. The location may provide some insight, as it is positioned in the western region. It may be positioned there to monitor Russian ballistic missile trials activity, or missile testing at Sary Shagan. Alternatively, it may be a space surveillance system intended to serve as a component in the developmental ASAT system. Whatever the purpose, the appearance of an LPAR in a relatively remote area is certainly significant.ADDITIONAL DISCUSSION
Feel free to discuss the current Image of the Week at the IMINT & Analysis Forum Image of the Week discussion thread found here.
SOURCES
-Satellite imagery provided courtesy of Google Earth
2 comments:
Interesting. There's another nearby what's-it at 41.760 N, 86.203 E.
Korla has been the site of early ballistic missile target ranges (see the patterns in the ground 10 km east of your radar site) and a reported CIA/Chinese ELINT site going back to 1980 or so.
It might be useful to check the area out more.
Very interesting site. I like it. There is a google earth kmz file that shows the space debris created after the 2005 chinese test of their satellite technology. The image above depicts the position formerly occupied by Chinese LPAR. I think The LPAR was unresponsive for a moment but came back with more free memory. Interesting.. Yes this really image of the week.
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