Japan successfully launches 4th H3 rocket

The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) has successfully launched the Kirameki 3 X-band defence communication satellite aboard its H3 rocket No. 4 on November 4, marking the agency's fifth attempt after four previous delays due to adverse weather and mechanical issues.

Despite cloudy skies and windy conditions at the Tanegashima Space Center in Kagoshima Prefecture, the launch proceeded without incident, Caliber.Az reports per Japanese media.

The X-band communication frequency is known for its resilience against weather-related disruptions, providing stable communication crucial for military operations. The Kirameki 3 satellite will facilitate high-speed data exchange, enabling the rapid transmission of critical information such as ballistic missile launch data and video feeds from deployed units abroad.

During the launch, the H3 rocket successfully followed its predetermined trajectory, separating into two stages and deploying the satellite into orbit before its remnants fell into the ocean.

The Defense Ministry currently operates two other X-band satellites, Kirameki 1 and Kirameki 2, and aims to create a three-satellite system with the addition of Kirameki 3 to meet increasing communication needs and improve operational resilience. Plans are underway to enhance ground facilities and increase bandwidth by acquiring more receivers.

The ministry also intends to develop next-generation defence satellites to eventually replace the first two Kirameki satellites, incorporating advanced interference-resistant technologies through ongoing demonstrations.

Details regarding the size and capabilities of the Kirameki 3 satellite remain undisclosed for national security reasons, according to NHK.

The H3 rocket, developed collaboratively by JAXA and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, serves as the successor to the H-IIA rocket, which is set for retirement. Following a failed launch of the first H3 rocket in March of last year, both the second and third launches this year were successful, with the latest successful launch expected to enhance the rocket's reliability and help secure commercial satellite launch contracts.

By Vafa Guliyeva