SKY Perfect JSAT Unmoved by SpaceX Growth, Sees Deeper Collaboration
Despite the rise of SpaceX under the Trump administration, SKY Perfect JSAT, Asia's leading satellite operator, anticipates strengthened ties with the rocket and satellite internet giant.
JSAT's President, Eiichi Yonekura, believes SpaceX's advancements are not a threat to their growth, citing their heavy reliance on its rockets for satellite launches.
"The rapid progress of SpaceX is not a negative factor for our expansion," Yonekura stated, acknowledging the potential benefits of Musk's close relationship with Trump for SpaceX.
JSAT, a major SpaceX customer in Asia, expects to further enhance its collaboration with the company as Planet's Pelicans observation satellites are primarily launched using Falcon 9.
The Japanese firm aims to establish a constellation of 10 Planet Pelicans by 2027 to enter the low-orbit observation market. It anticipates generating 23 billion yen in sales from satellite data businesses by 2030, focusing on national security clients.
SpaceX's innovations, including the reusable Falcon 9 booster, have reduced the cost of rocket launches. However, JSAT maintains partnerships with Arianespace and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries as backup options.