Aerospace Technology

— Latest update: October 2024 —

Japan’s aerospace industry has a strong international reputation, particularly in the field of research and development (R&D). Recently, however, it has shifted its focus from R&D to the commercialization of space technology. The Basic Space Law, enacted in 2008 and reviewed in 2021, has paved the way for the development of Japan’s space industry, and Japan’s key strategy for space is still developing and growing today.

There are many actors associated with the Japanese space program, including government ministries, offices, and agencies. The most important one is the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), the governmental agency active in this sector with tasks and technologies that include launch systems, satellite development and further operations.

Examples of Japanese innovations in this field are the H-II rocket and its H-II Transfer Vehicle (HTV), which supports and cooperate with the International Space Station (ISS), Japan’s first solid-fuel Epsilon rocket launched for the first time in 2013 and the H3 rocket, the H-II’s successor which has been launched successfully in 2024 and it has now moved into the mass production phase.

One of the many objectives of Japan’s space policy is to integrate space infrastructure for social purposes and to stimulate economic growth.

The Society of Japanese Aerospace Companies, Japanese Aerospace Industry – 2024, 2024

Table of Contents

• Overview
  • Industry Definitions and Strategies
  • Budget Allocations
• Satellites
• Rockets
• Components and Other Technologies
• EU-Japan Cooperation
• Future Prospects
• Expert Reports & webinars
• Annual Report
• Further Reading
• Relevant Organisations and Trade Fairs