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MOL Group's Ambitious Steps Towards Offshore Rocket Operations

On July 10, 2025, a significant collaboration was announced between Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), Future Space Transportation Systems Co., Ltd. (ISC), and TOS Solutions Tokyo Bay Co., Ltd. (formerly Mitsui E&S Shipbuilding). These three companies signed a partnership agreement to drive the commercialization of offshore rocket launch and recovery operations.

This project was conceived through MOL's innovative business proposal initiative, the "MOL Incubation Bridge," which encourages employees to explore new business avenues. With plans to consider a significant entry into the space business, MOL is gearing up to make strides in the aerospace sector by developing ships specifically for rocket launches and recoveries at sea. The project seeks to lay the groundwork for a new space infrastructure by 2030.

Key Players in the Collaboration

During the SPACE TIDE 2025 side event, representatives from the three companies commemorated the partnership with a photo session. From the left, Kojiro Hatada from ISC, Miwako Ando from MOL, and Hiroshi Seki from TOS were present to illustrate the collaborative spirit of this venture.

Vision for the Future

MOL is particularly emphasizing its role within the sector focusing on offshore rocket launch and recovery. They plan to begin with the development of specialized recovery vessels, followed by the assessment of the economic and technical feasibility of offshore launch ships. The collaboration with ISC and TOS aims to enhance the frequency of rocket launches through the operationalization of these ships.

The project anticipates that through the creation of dedicated vessels for rocket launches and recovery, it will establish a new infrastructure to support next-generation space transport. Harnessing MOL's expertise and technology developed in the maritime and marine sectors, this initiative aims to generate substantial societal value, positioning the group at the forefront of the evolving space business landscape.

Partnership Details

Collaborative Efforts:

1. Development of the Offshore Recovery Vessel:
- The team will analyze the requirements for the design of the recovery ship and explore its application to ISC's reusable rocket, ASCA 1.

2. Business Implementation for Offshore Launch Vessel:
- Investigating the design requirements for the offshore launch vessel, the project will assess its economic viability alongside technological considerations.

Agreement Date:

The formalization of this partnership took place on July 9, 2025.

Conclusion

Through the signing of this partnership agreement, MOL, ISC, and TOS are taking tangible steps towards a future where space transport becomes more efficient and accessible. The collaboration marks a significant milestone and showcases the dedication of these companies to innovation in addressing the challenges of space logistics. The roadmap leading up to 2030 is poised to transform the landscape of space transport, leveraging maritime expertise for the rocket industry. As this initiative unfolds, the global space community watches closely, anticipating a new era in space transportation capabilities.