SSTL, the small satellite manufacturer, will collaborate with IHI to develop its capability in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR). SSTL’s satellites and satellite buses will be used.
Satvu
Satvu is a thermal infrared satellite specialist. The London-based company says it will work with IHI to initially evaluate the use of SatVu’s thermal data. They plan to define the requirements for a Japanese high-resolution thermal infrared (IR) satellite constellation. They will also explore building and operating such a constellation in Japan. SSTL is already building SatVu’s satellites.
Earth Observation
“We are delighted to be partnering with IHI to bring SatVu’s world-leading thermal infrared satellite technology to Japan,” said SatVu Co-Founder and CEO, Anthony Baker.
“By combining our expertise with IHI’s proven leadership in aerospace and defence, we can deliver sovereign Earth Observation capabilities that will strengthen Japan’s security and resilience, while unlocking innovative applications across industry, energy, and climate monitoring. This collaboration reflects our SatVu shared vision of harnessing space technology to address some of the most pressing challenges facing societies today.”
IHI
For its part, IHI highlighted the potential of high-res thermal IR data.
“Today’s world is increasingly insecure,” said Atsushi Sato, President of IHI’s Aero Engine, Space & Defence Business Area. “Japan’s National defence Strategy recognises the importance of strengthening its sovereign capability in space whilst simultaneously opening the door to cooperation and collaboration with allies and like-minded countries with shared strategic interests.”
“High-resolution thermal infrared data has huge potential to contribute to Japan’s national and economic security. This MoU is the first step in building the sovereign capability of thermal infrared critical to Japan’s national security in the years to come.”
UK and Japan
SSTL highlighted its track record in on-orbit operations.
“Space has become critically important for national security in recent years, and increasingly nations are deploying satellites in support of their Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance requirements, as they can provide global reach, privacy and priority,” said SSTL Executive Chairman, Professor Sir Martin Sweeting.
“SSTL is a recognized pioneer and leader in this area, and not only designs and manufactures spacecraft but also has demonstrated dependable and reliable services from those satellites. According to UK government, the UK MOD and Japan MOD have a deeply aligned and strengthening strategic partnership focused on defence and security cooperation, and are each others’ closest security partners between Europe and Asia.”
IHI, dating from 1853 as a shipyard business, changed its name from Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Industries to IHI Corporation in 2007.
HotSat
Satvu launched its first satellite, HotSat-1, in 2023. The company plans to expand its constellation with HotSat-2 and HotSat-3 in 2026. it plans to become the ‘World’s Thermometer’.
SatVu received the first high resolution thermal imagery from HOTSAT-1 back in October 2023. It failed in orbit, however, six months after its June 2023 launch.
Its initial mid Wave Infra-Red (MWIR) thermal imaging satellite was the first of a planned constellation. It was manufactured in Guildford by Surrey Satellite Technology Limited (SSTL).
Images: SatVu
See also: Satvu signs up for HotSat-2 thermal imaging satellite