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The Ministry of Defense is promoting the development of domestically produced space-related technologies to enhance security, and as part of this policy, it is strengthening cooperation with emerging venture companies, recently awarding a series of research and development projects in space technology to two domestic startup companies. The move is in line with the National Security Strategy and the Space Security Initiative, and is aimed at strengthening the domestic supply chain.
The startups QPS Research Institute and Space One were commissioned to develop prototype satellites and to conduct research on improving the capability of small rockets, respectively. The total value of the order amounts to 14.139 billion yen, and the research period is scheduled until 2028. These projects are part of a broader initiative to build a constellation of satellites capable of early detection of long-range missiles.
The Ministry of Defense also actively participates in international space technology exhibitions to deepen cooperation with domestic and foreign companies. The Air Self-Defense Force has established a space cooperation office in the Toranomon Hills Business Tower in Tokyo to promote exchange with the private sector. Space dominance is considered key to the next generation of security, and domestic and international competition is intensifying.
