Japan Unveils Comprehensive Space Defense Strategy to Safeguard Satellites

As of August 2025, the Japanese government has taken a significant step in bolstering its space defense capabilities. The Ministry of Defense has formulated the country's first-ever guidelines on space security, outlining specific measures to ensure the safety of its critical space infrastructure.

The new strategy focuses on enhancing Japan's satellite and space-based monitoring and defense capabilities. This includes increasing the number of information-gathering satellites to closely track ground conditions and the movements of other countries' satellites and armed forces. The ministry also plans to create "satellite constellations" made up of numerous small satellites to improve communication and missile detection.

Crucially, the guidelines address the growing threat of "killer satellites" developed by China and Russia, which are designed to attack other nations' satellites. To counter this, Japan aims to strengthen its monitoring and defense against potential satellite-based attacks, as well as cyber and ground-based threats.

The strategy also involves actively utilizing technologically advanced commercial satellites, though this raises concerns about companies being caught up in conflicts between states. The government is now working to establish compensation and other mechanisms to mitigate these risks.

Japan's shift in space policy is a significant departure from its previous stance. In 1969, the country had limited the development and use of space to peaceful purposes, but the 2008 Basic Space Act expanded this to include security purposes. The latest guidelines further cement space defense as a key priority for the nation.