Key Takeaways

• Synspective has contracted Mitsubishi Heavy Industries to launch two StriX radar satellites on Japan’s H3 rocket in 2027.
• The StriX constellation provides radar imagery to Japan’s Ministry of Defense as part of a 105.6 billion yen subcontract running through March 2031.
• This launch marks a shift to a domestic rocket, enhancing Japan’s strategic autonomy in satellite deployment.

Synspective Partners with Mitsubishi for Satellite Launch

Japanese satellite company Synspective has solidified its plans to launch two StriX radar satellites aboard Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ H3 rocket in 2027, marking a significant step in domestic satellite deployment. This agreement, announced on September 18, is part of a broader strategy to provide radar imagery to Japan’s Ministry of Defense under a sizeable subcontract valued at 105.6 billion yen, set to continue until March 2031.

The StriX constellation, crucial for Japan’s defense, will be positioned in a mid-inclination orbit, optimizing coverage over key economic regions and areas susceptible to natural disasters, especially within the Asia-Pacific area. This represents a notable transition from previous launches, which were conducted via Rocket Lab’s Electron rocket, with the last StriX launch occurring on September 25. The H3 rocket represents Japan’s flagship launch vehicle and is aimed at ensuring a quicker and more reliable expansion of the satellite constellation up to 30 satellites by 2030.

Each StriX satellite utilizes synthetic aperture radar technology, which enables imaging through cloud cover and during nighttime. Weighing approximately 100 kg (220 pounds), each satellite features an expandable radar antenna that spans about 5 meters (16 feet) once in orbit. The continuous and dependable orbital deployment is pivotal for immediate applications in disaster response, infrastructure monitoring, and national security, according to Synspective Executive Takushi Nakamura.

In a collaborative effort, a consortium of seven companies, including Synspective, iQPS, and Mitsubishi Electric, was chosen in December 2025 to develop a privately financed satellite constellation dedicated to providing national defense imagery. This project is valued at 283.1 billion yen (approximately $1.80 billion) and complements Synspective’s subcontract with the Ministry of Defense.

Furthermore, the H3 launch initiative is supported by JAXA’s Space Strategy Fund, which aims to bolster Japanese space enterprises. Synspective’s selection for this fund highlights its alignment with Japan’s national space policy, aiming to enhance the country’s capabilities in space technology and satellite deployment.

Overall, this partnership signifies a progressive shift for Japan’s space industry, emphasizing national autonomy in satellite operations and contributing to the country’s defense capabilities through advanced radar imaging technology.

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