A North Korean space official says the country has become capable of launching various kinds of satellites into orbit.

The state-run Korean Central News Agency reported on Monday an interview with Pak Kyong Su, vice-director of the National Aerospace Development Administration.

The news agency says the interview was given the previous day to mark the 14th anniversary of the country's accession to the Outer Space Treaty.

Pak said North Korea has made steady progress in developing multi-functional and high-performance satellites.

He said the country has succeeded in developing a high-thrust engine capable of carrying a rocket. He added that this has "provided a sure guarantee" for the country to launch various satellites into orbit.

North Korea has already announced it will complete preparations for its first military reconnaissance satellite by April.

In March last year, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspected the National Aerospace Development Administration and unveiled plans to put more reconnaissance satellites into orbit.

He also visited a satellite launch site in Tongchang-ri in the country's northwest in the same month and instructed officials to modernize and expand its facilities.

The international community remains vigilant as Pyongyang may launch another series of long-range ballistic missiles from the site, while claiming they are satellite launch vehicles.