JRC, SKY Perfect JSAT, Sharp Partner on Defense Multi-Orbit Comms Project

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Japan Radio Co., Ltd., SKY Perfect JSAT Corporation, and Sharp Corporation will collaborate to develop and demonstrate a next-generation communications system in support of the Ministry of Defense (Japan) program titled "Development and Demonstration of Resilience-Enhancing Technologies for Multi-Orbit Communications Systems", for which JRC was selected on February 4, 2026.

This solicitation is intended to enhance the resilience and reliability of communications infrastructure, in light of expanding communications demand in the disaster prevention and defense domains and the growing need to secure stable communications under a variety of circumstances, including natural disasters and unforeseen events. It aims to build a next-generation communications system that leverages a combination of GEO, MEO and LEO satellites, and to enable multi-orbit operation by establishing control technologies that allow seamless switching among satellite links—where satellite communications are currently operated through separate systems optimized for each orbit.

During the project period through March 31, 2028, JRC will oversee overall project coordination, SKY Perfect JSAT will lead the development of a seamless communications network, and Sharp will primarily drive the development of a multi-orbit-capable satellite communications user terminal, as the three companies develop a communications system supporting multi-orbit operations across GEO, MEO and LEO satellites and validate improvements in communications network resilience.

Through this demonstration, the three companies will strive to improve communications reliability under various conditions, including disasters and emergencies, and will contribute to maintaining critical social functions and ensuring safety and security.