It will be working with six partner companies: Mitsubishi Electric, SKY Perfect JSAT, Mitsui, Institute for Q-shu Pioneers of Space, Axelspace and Mitsui Bussan Aerospace.
Defence
“The initiative aims to provide persistent imagery intelligence that strengthens Japan’s defense posture through enhanced situational awareness and reconnaissance capabilities,” announces the company.
As lead company, Mitsubishi will establish a Special Purpose Company (SPC) for the project. The idea is for Japan to build and operate a military satellite constellation through the private-sector. It will be under a Private Finance Initiative (PFI).
The project is expected to take approximately 5 years, up to March 2031.
Synspective
Synspective develops and operates high-frequency, high-resolution SAR satellites called “StriX” to provide data sets.
So far it has successfully placed four satellites into orbit so far. These collect data with a ground resolution of 1m (in Sliding Spotlight mode). Another option is 3m (in StripMap mode), and a swath width of 10-30km.
It aims, however, to develop a constellation of 30 SAR satellites by the late 2020s.
Image: First imagery from its seventh satellite launched (Honolulu, Hawaii – December 19, 2025)
See also: Synspective raises $43.5m Series C for SAR satellite constellation
