Mitsubishi Electric to develop next-generation defense satellite communications system for Japan Ministry of Defense

By Global Infrastructure Sherpa · Feb 6, 2026

Development Transmission announced Tokyo, Japan Feb 6, 2026

development

Stage

Next-generation Defense Satellite Communications System

Project

Mitsubishi Electric was awarded a contract by the Japan Ministry of Defense to develop and manufacture the next-generation defense communications satellite and design the ground system necessary for communicating with the satellite, replacing the current Kirameki-2 satellite.

Deal Analysis

Mitsubishi Electric has been awarded a contract by the Japan Ministry of Defense to develop the next-generation defense communications satellite system, replacing the existing Kirameki-2 satellite. This project encompasses the development and manufacture of the satellite itself, as well as the design of the necessary ground system. The deal underscores the ongoing modernization efforts of Japan's defense infrastructure and its commitment to secure and advanced communication capabilities. While the financial value of the contract remains undisclosed, the project is slated for completion with an announcement date of February 6, 2026.

Mitsubishi Electric is the sole developer for this project.
The project involves both space-based and ground-based infrastructure development.
The deal highlights Japan's focus on modernizing its defense communication capabilities.
The contract replaces the existing Kirameki-2 satellite.

Market Context: The defense communication sector is characterized by high barriers to entry, long-term contracts, and significant government oversight. This sector is driven by national security concerns and the need for reliable and secure communication networks.

Source Intelligence

KEY DETAILS

The new satellite will be deployed in geostationary orbit. "In line with these guidelines, the new contract covers the development and manufacture of a next-generation defense communications satellite that will be newly deployed in geostationary orbit."

“

Location

TOKYO, February 6, 2026

“

Announcement

TOKYO, February 6, 2026 - Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (TOKYO: 6503) announced today that it was awarded a contract by the Japan Ministry of Defense on February 6 to construct a next-generation defense satellite communications system.

“

Signing

Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (TOKYO: 6503) announced today that it was awarded a contract by the Japan Ministry of Defense on February 6 to construct a next-generation defense satellite communications system.

PARTIES MENTIONED IN SOURCE

Mitsubishi Electric Corporation developer

"Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (TOKYO: 6503) announced today that it was awarded a contract by the Japan Ministry of Defense on February 6 to construct a next-generation defense satellite communications system."

Japan Ministry of Defense buyer

Japan Self-Defense Forces N/A

"Through these efforts, the company will establish a defense-communication infrastructure to support operations of the Japan Ministry of Defense and the Japan Self-Defense Forces."

high quality Enriched Feb 19, 2026