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Therefore, it is becoming increasingly essential to make certain that these satellites are safe and secure. However, certain satellites make for simple targets, leaving them open to the possibility of hostile assaults. Concerned satellite operators have reported an increase in the number of instances in which unexplained spaceships came dangerously close to other satellites. Because of this, both Japan’s National Security Strategy and National Defense Strategy advocate for increasing “Space Domain Awareness” (SDA), a term that encompasses the requirement for specialized, nimble satellites that can act as surveillance or police vehicles.
According to Fumiharu Namiki, Vice President of Aero Engine, Space, and Defense Business Area at IHI Corporation, “Recently, we have seen a rise in military surveillance efforts from other countries, which is becoming a threat to national security.”
“In order for us to comprehend the threat, we need to characterize the suspicious satellites. Because of Northrop Grumman’s extensive track record of success in this industry, as well as the fact that our two businesses have worked together successfully for many years, we consider them to be the ideal partner for us to work with in order to find answers to these challenges. He went on to say that we will work together in order to contribute to the safe utilization of space.
As a direct response to this, Northrop Grumman and IHI Corporation, which is headquartered in Tokyo, have come to an agreement to collaborate on the production of highly maneuverable small satellites for use in SDA missions. These spacecraft will make use of satellite buses that Northrop Grumman has already manufactured. IHI Corporation has a lengthy history of offering services related to data collection for situational awareness.
These services contribute to the smooth operation of satellites, and the business has amassed a significant amount of expertise regarding the motion of satellites in geosynchronous earth orbit. (GEO). IHI Aerospace, which is a component of the IHI group, is responsible for the production of propulsion devices for commercial satellites and spacecraft that were manufactured by Northrop Grumman. Since they first began working together, the two businesses have developed a mutually respectful and reliable relationship.
On the other hand, Northrop Grumman has a lengthy history of manufacturing products for both the ground and space that assist in monitoring the environment of space and locating, identifying, and describing objects in space. These products can be found on both the ground and in space. The business is a market leader in the field of rendezvous and proximity operations in geosynchronous orbit and low-Earth orbit (LEO). (GEO). Customers in a variety of mission domains can benefit from essential logistics, servicing, and inspection capabilities that are provided by the company.
The collaboration between Northrop Grumman and the IHI Corporation aims to make space a more significant location, particularly for operations in geosynchronous Earth orbit (GEO) and global and national security space that can be carried out in an environmentally responsible manner. The expertise of the two companies is being combined in an effort to develop an SDA solution that is both cost-effective and practical for use in Japan, the United States, and the rest of the globe.
