The partnership leverages ICEYE’s Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology, which delivers high-resolution imaging in all weather and lighting conditions. Rafal Modrzewski, Co-founder and CEO of ICEYE, said, “ICEYE has built a trusted partnership with Japan since 2018, grounded in shared values and innovation. This agreement with IHI marks a new milestone in strengthening our partnership and enhancing shared security and resilience. By combining IHI’s engineering excellence with ICEYE’s SAR technology, we’re enabling sovereign access to critical Earth observation data and advancing Japan’s leadership in space-based intelligence.”
The collaboration aims to strengthen Japan’s sovereign access to space-based intelligence and boost resilience through advanced monitoring systems. Hiroshi Ide, President and CEO of IHI, stated, “At IHI, we are committed to contributing to the realization of a safe and secure society in a rapidly changing world. This initiative represents an investment in IHI’s future. In collaboration with ICEYE, we are taking on the challenge of creating new value through cutting-edge satellite technology. Through the development of an Earth observation satellite constellation, we aim to address not only national and economic security but also a wide range of societal challenges. By harnessing the full strength of the IHI Group’s manufacturing capabilities, we will lead the construction of essential infrastructure that will be indispensable for the society of the future.”
Two of the four initial satellites will be assembled and tested in Japan, with preparations already under way between the two companies. Depending on successful demonstrations, IHI may expand to a full 24-satellite constellation by fiscal year 2029, starting from fiscal year 2026.
The agreement builds on a memorandum of understanding signed in May 2025 to jointly develop the constellation and establish domestic satellite production in Japan. This cooperation combines ICEYE’s rapid satellite deployment capabilities with IHI’s engineering heritage to enhance Japan’s space and manufacturing sectors.
