#Japan #Tokyo #ICEYE #Earth Observation #IHI Corporation

ICEYE and IHI Join Forces to Build an Earth Observation Satellite Constellation

In a significant development in the space industry, ICEYE, a leader in Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite operations, and IHI Corporation, a renowned name in Japan's aerospace sector, have sealed an agreement to build a constellation of Earth observation satellites. This collaboration is set to advance capabilities for security, civilian applications, and commercial use.

Details of the Agreement

Under the new procurement contract, IHI has made an initial order for four satellites and a comprehensive image acquisition system, with an option to acquire an additional 20 satellites in the future. The phased commissioning and data delivery for the first satellites are anticipated to start around April 2026. This partnership brings together ICEYE's cutting-edge radar technology and IHI's engineering prowess, aimed at delivering crucial Earth observation data.

Strategic Importance

Rafal Modrzewski, Co-founder and CEO of ICEYE, expressed optimism about the collaboration, noting, "Since 2018, ICEYE has developed a trustworthy partnership with Japan, founded on shared values and a commitment to innovation. This agreement with IHI signifies a vital step in amplifying our partnership, enhancing collective security and resilience. We are looking forward to combining IHI's engineering excellence with ICEYE's SAR technology."

Hiroshi Ide, the CEO of IHI, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the commitment to contribute towards a safe society amid rapid global changes. He mentioned, "This initiative represents a monumental investment in IHI's future. By teaming with ICEYE, we strive to generate new value through advanced satellite technology. Through this satellite constellation initiative, we will tackle various security and societal challenges, reinforcing our engineering capabilities."

Development Phases

For this project, two of the initial satellites are set to be assembled and tested in Japan, with preparations already underway between ICEYE and IHI. Should the outcomes demonstrate successful results, IHI plans to finalize the acquisition of the remaining satellites in phases, aiming to complete the entire 24-satellite constellation by fiscal year 2029.

This contract follows the memorandum signed between the two firms in May 2025, focusing on developing the satellite constellation and establishing domestic production facilities in Japan. This collaboration hinges on the mutual ambition to blend ICEYE's rapid satellite deployment capabilities with IHI's engineering expertise to enhance Japan's manufacturing and space capabilities.

About ICEYE

ICEYE has pioneered persistent monitoring solutions that allow rapid detection and responses to various environmental changes across the globe. The organization operates the most extensive SAR satellite constellation globally, providing real-time insights that empower governments, commercial industries, and security agencies. Operating from multiple international locations, including Finland, Poland, Spain, the UK, Australia, Japan, the UAE, Greece, and the US, ICEYE comprises over 900 employees dedicated to enhancing life on Earth through innovation in Earth observation.

For more information and the latest developments, follow ICEYE on LinkedIn and X or visit their official website at www.iceye.com.