Japan and EU envision satellite network to cut reliance on US, SpaceX

Leaders set to agree on greater cooperation in defense and space sectors

20250711N SpaceX

A SpaceX rocket carries Starlink satellites into orbit. The EU and Japan want to jointly develop their own space industries. © Reuters

TAKASHI TSUJI

BRUSSELS -- Japan and the European Union look to develop an extensive communications satellite network, a draft agreement for the Japan-EU summit on July 23 shows, part of an effort to reduce reliance on U.S. companies like SpaceX.

The two sides would create the network by launching and jointly operating small satellites.

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