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 is a significant development in the field of Earth observation and national security for Japan. IHI's aero-engine, space, and defense business president, Atsushi Sato, emphasizes the importance of a secure and resilient space capability for Japan's national security. Sato highlights the unique capabilities of hyperspectral satellite data, which can provide insights that conventional imagery cannot, supporting both security and dual-use applications. The Hyperfield-2 satellites, in particular, extend Kuva's sensors into the short-wave infrared, enabling the constellation to identify and distinguish materials by their spectral fingerprints. This capability is crucial for detecting 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. According to Kuva, 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 aims to deploy 100 satellites by the end of 2030, promising sub-daily monitoring across East Asia. IHI's involvement in this project is strategic, as it has been evaluating data and analytics from Kuva's Hyperfield-1 spacecraft since November. The company has also ordered an initial four synthetic aperture radar satellites from Iceye and partnered with SatVu and Surrey Satellite Technology Limited (SSTL) to explore contributing to the broader constellation. IHI's initial plan 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 is a significant step forward in Japan's Earth observation capabilities and underscores the importance of international collaboration in space technology development.
