Japan Successfully Launches Defense Satellite with New H3 Rocket

The launch underscores Japan's efforts to enhance military capabilities amid regional tensions.

Japan's H3 No. 4 rocket successfully launched from Tanegashima Space Center, deploying the Kirameki No. 3 satellite.
The satellite, designed for military communications and reconnaissance, will help monitor North Korean missile activities.
This mission marks the third consecutive successful flight of the H3 system following its initial failure last year.
The H3 rocket, developed by JAXA and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, aims to replace the retiring H-2A model with lower costs.
Monday's launch was delayed four times due to technical issues and weather, originally scheduled for October 20.