Japan launches intel satellite to watch North Korea, disasters
The Hindu
The H2A rocket, launched by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Limited, successfully lifted off from the Tanegashima Space Center in southwestern Japan.
Japan successfully launched a rocket on January 26 carrying a government intelligence-gathering satellite on a mission to watch movements at military sites in North Korea and improve natural disaster response.
The H2A rocket, launched by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Limited, successfully lifted off from the Tanegashima Space Center in southwestern Japan, carrying the IGS-Radar 7 reconnaissance satellite as part of Tokyo’s effort to build up its military capability, citing growing threats in the East Asia. “The satellite later successfully entered its planned orbit,” Mitsubishi Heavy Industries said.
The Intelligence Gathering Satellite can capture images on the ground 24 hours a day and even in severe weather conditions. Japan launched the IGS programme after a North Korean missile flyover of Japan in 1988 and aims to set up a network of 10 satellites to spot and provide early warning for possible missile launches. The satellites can be also used for disaster monitoring and response.
“The government will maximise the use of IGS-Radar 7 and other reconnaissance satellites to do the utmost for Japan's national security and crisis management,” Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said in a statement on January 26 as he praised the successful launch.
Mr. Kishida’s government in December adopted a new national security strategy, including possessing long-range cruise missiles as a “counterstrike” capability that breaks from the country’s exclusively self-defence-only postwar principle, citing rapid weapons advancement in China and North Korea.
“Possible counterstrikes that aim to preempt enemy attacks would require significant advancement in intelligence gathering and cybersecurity capability, as well as significant assistance from Japan’s ally,” the United States experts say.
The Mitsubishi Heavy-operated, liquid-fuel H2A rocket has recorded 40 consecutive successes since a failure in 2003.
Trump urges Iran to finalize a meaningful nuclear deal within 10 days, amid escalating military tensions and potential conflict.
Tensions escalate in West Asia as the U.S. and Iran bolster military presence amid looming decisions on potential strikes.
Pakistan issues demarche to Taliban over Afghan soil used for deadly terror attack, demanding action against terrorist groups.
Jose Maria Balcazar is appointed as Peru's interim President, marking the eighth leadership change in a decade amid political turmoil.
UN probe reveals 'hallmarks of genocide' in El-Fasher, condemning atrocities during Sudan's ongoing conflict and calling for justice.
Iran asserts its right to nuclear enrichment, dismissing foreign attempts to limit its nuclear program amid rising tensions with the U.S.
Unknown gunmen kill three militants linked to recent attacks on government officials in northwest Pakistan, police report.
As Ramzan approaches, Muslims around the world prepare for renewed spiritual discipline. A quiz on the holy month
Unitree, a private company started by tech entrepreneur Wang Xinxing (36) who designed his first robot at university, said this week it plans to sell as many as 20,000 humanoid robots this year, an almost four-fold rise from 2025
India has added its name to the list of countries criticising Israel for its unilateral measures on the West Bank.
Russia calls for restraint amid rising U.S. military presence near Iran, urging diplomatic solutions to escalating tensions.
Former Prince Andrew arrested by U.K. police for suspected misconduct related to allegations involving Jeffrey Epstein.
Test your knowledge on how countries got their names with our engaging quiz featuring fascinating etymological insights!