TOKYO: The Japanese military is currently conducting tests on Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet service, with the intention of adopting this state-of-art technology in the upcoming fiscal year. As reported by the Yomiuri newspaper, government sources, who requested to remain anonymous, have disclosed this information.
While the Ministry of Defense already possesses access to communication satellites situated in geostationary orbit, the integration of Starlink technology, operated by Musk's SpaceX, would introduce a network of satellites in low Earth orbit, expanding the country's capabilities. This move aligns with the global trend of nations endeavoring to fortify their resilience against potential communication jamming and satellite attacks during times of conflict.
Since March, Japan's Self-Defense Forces have been actively testing the Starlink system in approximately ten locations, utilizing it during training exercises. The newspaper further reported that the Defence Ministry has been unavailable for comment outside regular business hours.
It is worth noting that Ukraine has also implemented Starlink technology in battlefield scenarios, while Russia has made attempts to impede its usage in the region. In October, Elon Musk stated that SpaceX could not indefinitely finance the utilization of Starlink in Ukraine.
Moreover, the United States Defense Department announced earlier this month that it had secured a contract to provide Starlink services within its own jurisdiction.
By embracing Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet service, Japan's military aims to leverage its numerous advantages to enhance its operational efficiency and effectiveness. Let us delve into some key aspects that make Starlink an attractive proposition for the country.
Starlink offers substantial improvements in bandwidth capabilities compared to traditional satellite communication systems. Starlink's mobile nature and compatibility with portable terminals make it highly versatile for deployment across different locations. Japan's Self-Defense Forces can utilize this technology in various scenarios, including training exercises, disaster response, and remote or challenging terrains, ensuring reliable and secure communication links.
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