Japan successfully launched a defense satellite on Monday, utilizing its new flagship H3 rocket as part of its efforts to enhance military capabilities in response to rising regional tensions.

The H3 No. 4 rocket took off from the Tanegashima Space Center, located on a southwestern island of Japan. According to the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), the launch proceeded as planned, and the satellite was successfully detached approximately 30 minutes after liftoff. Further details about the mission are expected later in the day.

The satellite, named Kirameki No. 3, is equipped with X-band communication technology, allowing it to gather military information and monitor potential North Korean missile activity. X-band satellites are particularly effective as they are less impacted by adverse weather, ensuring reliable communication. Kirameki No. 3 joins two previously operational X-band satellites.

This launch had been rescheduled from an initial date of October 20, following four delays due to technical issues and unfavorable weather conditions. It marks the third consecutive successful flight of the H3 rocket system, which had a troubled debut last year when its first flight ended with the rocket being destroyed before reaching orbit.

Japan considers a robust and competitive space transport capability crucial for its space program and national security. JAXA and its primary contractor, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), are working on the H3 system to succeed the current H-2A rocket, which is set to retire after two more missions. MHI aims to streamline H3 production and reduce launch costs to make it commercially viable, targeting a price that is about half that of the H-2A.

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