Mitsubishi Electric: contract is for satellite constellation

Mitsubishi Electric: contract is for satellite constellation

Mitsubishi Electric Partners with Synspective to Develop Satellite Constellation for National Security

TOKYO — Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (TOKYO: 6503) has entered a strategic partnership with Synspective Inc., a Tokyo-based satellite technology startup, to develop a satellite constellation for national security applications. The agreement, announced on December 16, 2024, includes Mitsubishi Electric acquiring a stake in Synspective, which specializes in synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite systems and data analytics according to the company's announcement.

The collaboration aims to leverage Synspective's small SAR satellite constellation—capable of emitting electromagnetic waves to capture high-resolution Earth imagery—and Mitsubishi Electric's expertise in defense and space systems. The partnership aligns with Japan's broader strategic goals outlined in the 2023 Space Security Initiative, which emphasizes expanding space-based capabilities to enhance national defense and regional security as detailed in company reports.

Synspective's SAR technology enables continuous Earth observation regardless of weather or lighting conditions, making it critical for detecting and tracking targets. Mitsubishi Electric plans to commercialize satellite imagery for security agencies in Japan and across Asia, addressing growing demand for real-time intelligence in defense and disaster response according to the company's statement.

Mitsubishi Electric's defense business, which adheres to Japan's Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology, has a long history of satellite development and international collaboration. The company has previously served as prime contractor for engineering test satellites such as ETS-VIII and RAISE-2, developed for the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) as noted in company documentation. Synspective, established in 2018, has built one of the world's few operational SAR satellite constellations and provides data-driven solutions for global challenges according to company information.

Dr. Motoyuki Arai, Synspective's CEO, highlighted the partnership's potential to "create new infrastructure for understanding Earth and achieving a resilient future," while Tomonori Sato, Mitsubishi Electric's CTO for Defense & Space Systems, emphasized the integration of SAR satellite solutions with the company's defense expertise to meet evolving customer needs according to the company's announcement.

The partnership underscores Japan's push to strengthen stand-off defense capabilities through advanced space systems, reflecting a strategic shift toward leveraging satellite technology for security and stability in the Asia-Pacific region.