Maj. Gen. Yasuhiro Kato, the Joint Staff Systems Department chief, told an online joint news conference from Tanegashima that the triple X-band communication satellite system would enable high-speed, large-capacity data transmission and communication across Japan’s Ground, Maritime and Air Self Defense Forces, as well as with units deployed overseas on peacekeeping missions or exercises.

“It will further contribute to Japan’s national security and the operational capacity of the Self Defense Forces,” Kato said.