ICEYE and IHI to Develop SAR Satellite Constellation in Japan

Insider Brief

• ICEYE and IHI Corporation have signed a memorandum of understanding to jointly develop a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite constellation of up to 24 satellites.
• The proposed constellation will support military, civilian, and commercial applications, with operations and manufacturing based in Japan pending final agreements and regulatory approval.
• The cooperation aligns with Japan’s national goals of strengthening domestic space capabilities and enhancing security through partnerships with strategic allies.

PRESS RELEASE – ICEYE, the global leader in Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite operations for earth observation, and IHI Corporation (“IHI”), the Japanese heavy industries company, start cooperating on the development of a SAR constellation of up to 24 satellites, to provide earth observation data for military, civilian and commercial purposes.

A memorandum of understanding between the two companies was signed at DSEI Japan, the biannual defense event taking place this week at Makuhari Messe, near Tokyo. As part of the planned development, IHI and ICEYE plan to establish a satellite manufacturing facility in Japan, with satellites to be operated domestically. This initiative is intended to support Japan’s space ambitions of boosting space industries while strengthening national security and resilience. The foundation is still subject to definitive agreements and official approvals.

Rafal Modrzewski, Co-founder & CEO of ICEYE, said: “ICEYE has had a close relationship with Japan since 2018, building trust and long-term commitment. The strengthening of Finland-Japan relationship and technical alliance enhance the security of both nations. By collaborating with Japanese organizations, ICEYE improves their defense capabilities and strengthens shared security. We are dedicated to creating new connections and deepening relationships with all of Japan’s industry and government organizations.”

Atsushi Sato, President of IHI’s Aero Engine, Space & Defense Business Area, said: “Today’s world is increasingly insecure. Japan’s National Defense Strategy recognizes the importance of strengthening its own sovereign capability in space whilst simultaneously opening the door to cooperation and collaboration with allies / like-minded countries who share the nation’s strategic interests. This MoU is the first step in realizing the next generation of capabilities critical to Japan’s national security in the years to come.”