H3 Rocket Launches with 'Kirameki-3' Satellite, Deploying Japanese Military Satellite into Operation | WPN World People News

The Japanese H3 rocket, vehicle number 4, was successfully launched from the Tanegashima Space Center in Kagoshima Prefecture at around 3 p.m. local time on the 4th, successfully placing the X-band military communications satellite, "Kirameki-3," into its designated orbit, thus providing robust communications support for Japan's defense network.

The H3 rocket was developed by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) in collaboration with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries to succeed the soon-to-be-retired H2A rocket. The first test launch of this new rocket in March 2023 failed due to technical issues. However, both the second and third launches were successful, demonstrating the stability of the rocket technology.

On this occasion, the Kirameki-3 satellite, which launched with the H3 rocket vehicle number 4, is a dedicated communications satellite for Japan's Ministry of Defense, primarily serving command and communication purposes for the Japan Self-Defense Forces. The satellite operates in a geosynchronous orbit approximately 36,000 kilometers above Earth's surface, allowing it to maintain synchronization with Earth’s rotation, appearing stationary when viewed from the ground. This positioning enables it to provide continuous, stable communication services, supporting real-time information sharing for ships and troops across vast regions, whether during regular defense operations or emergency situations.

Additionally, the Ministry of Defense's X-band communication system is highly resistant to interference, effectively functioning in severe weather conditions and supporting high-capacity, fast data transmission. This feature means that in the event of a disaster or crisis, the Self-Defense Forces can swiftly transmit images, videos, and other information, significantly enhancing response efficiency.

This successful launch marks the first time an H3 rocket has carried a geostationary satellite and the Ministry of Defense’s third dedicated communications satellite. Together, these satellites will strengthen Japan's overall national defense communications infrastructure, with the research, development, and operational costs of this mission estimated at approximately 70 billion yen (about 15 billion New Taiwan Dollars).