Japan to nearly double surveillance satellite network

Enhanced capability seen aiding response to missile launches, disasters and more

20231107N satellite launch

With more satellites, Japan could keep a closer eye on missile launches and disasters. (Photo by Ryotaro Yamada)

SAKURA HASHIKAWA, Nikkei staff writer

TOKYO -- Japan aims to expand its network of information-gathering satellites to nine from the current five by fiscal 2029, strengthening its ability to detect missile launches.

Japan now operates two optical satellites, which can capture images of Earth's surface in color on clear days, and two radar satellites, which work even in cloudy or rainy weather. A fifth satellite relays data to and from Earth.

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