Latest News

JAXA Seeks Prime Contractor for Flagship Launch Vehicle

By Katie Kriz | March 3, 2014
      epsilon launch vehicle JAXA

      JAXA’s current Epsilon launch vehicle. Photo: JAXA

      [Via Satellite 03-03-2014] The Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) is making its final preparations for the development of its new flagship launch vehicle from Japan Fiscal Year (JFY) 2014, and is seeking a prime contractor to conduct its development, manufacturing and launch services. The new vehicle is being designed with a goal of securing the country’s autonomous launch capability of satellites and other payloads while acquiring international competitiveness in the space transportation field.

      The Committee on the National Space Policy of the Cabinet Office has recommended that the private sector play a role throughout the flagship launch vehicle project to make an internationally competitive spacecraft. The committee has said that the ability and power of the private sector should be leveraged in the development and they should also be able to provide launch services.