Japan's IHI is considering adding next-generation hyperspectral satellites from Finnish startup Kuva Space to its planned 100-strong, multi-sensor sovereign Earth observation constellation. This partnership could significantly enhance Japan's national security capabilities and provide valuable insights for both security and dual-use applications. The agreement, announced on July 21, involves exploring the construction and operation of Kuva's Hyperfield-2 satellites in Japan, potentially including manufacturing in the country. The first orders from IHI are expected in 2027, coinciding with Kuva's planned demonstration of the 70-kilogram microsatellite in orbit, following the deployment of two 12-kilogram Hyperfield-1 cubesats over the past two years.
A secure and resilient space capability is increasingly important for Japan's national security, according to Atsushi Sato, president of IHI's aero-engine, space, and defense business. Hyperspectral satellite data can provide insights that conventional imagery cannot, supporting both security and wider dual-use applications. Hyperfield-2 will extend Kuva's sensors into short-wave infrared, improving the constellation's ability to identify and distinguish materials by their spectral fingerprints.
Under the agreement, IHI is assessing the capability to detect vessels that are not broadcasting Automatic Identification System signals, potentially to conceal their location or activities, as well as mapping changes in land cover and use. Kuva estimates that around 20 Hyperfield-2 satellites would provide daily coverage of about 20 million square kilometers across Japan, neighboring countries, and surrounding ocean areas. The Finnish venture ultimately plans to deploy 100 satellites by the end of 2030, which could provide sub-daily monitoring across East Asia.
IHI would receive coverage in proportion to the number of satellites it procures, Kuva said, while benefiting from the revisit performance of the wider constellation. The Japanese group has been evaluating data and analytics from Kuva's Hyperfield-1 spacecraft since November and has already ordered an initial four synthetic aperture radar satellites from Iceye, with two of those satellites planned to be assembled and tested in Japan. IHI's initial plan also includes optical and radio-frequency payloads, as well as VDES, a ship-to-shore communications system that uses very high frequencies.
This partnership between IHI and Kuva Space has the potential to significantly enhance Japan's Earth observation capabilities, providing valuable data for national security and a wide range of dual-use applications. However, it also raises questions about the balance between security and privacy, particularly in the context of vessel tracking and land-use monitoring. As IHI continues to expand its constellation plans with partnerships like SatVu and Surrey Satellite Technology Limited, the implications for the global space industry and the future of Earth observation will be fascinating to watch.
