Lockheed Martin to Supply Advanced Anti-Jamming Payload for Japan’s Next-Gen Defense Satellite
March 6, 2026
In a major step to strengthen Japan’s orbital capabilities, Lockheed Martin has been selected to provide a sophisticated anti-jamming payload for the country’s Next-Generation Defense Satellite Communication System. The project, officially awarded to Mitsubishi Electric by the Japanese Ministry of Defense, marks a deepening partnership between the two aerospace giants.
As a key mission partner to Mitsubishi Electric, Lockheed Martin will deliver advanced technology designed to enhance the satellite’s resilience against signal interference. This payload will not only improve resistance to jamming but also ensure seamless interoperability between Japan and its allied nations during critical operations.
“We are honored to collaborate with Mitsubishi Electric to provide Japan with a proven, next-generation communications capability,” said Jeff Schrader, Vice President of Strategy & Business Development at Lockheed Martin Space. “By leveraging our extensive investments in advanced manufacturing and focusing on the needs of our global allies, we are delivering rapid spacecraft solutions that address evolving security challenges.”
The development process will be split between the two nations: Lockheed Martin will manufacture the payload at its Colorado facilities, while Mitsubishi Electric will handle the final assembly, integration, and testing in Japan. The resulting domestically produced satellite is destined for geostationary orbit (GEO).
This new system is set to replace the existing X-band defense communications satellite. Beyond improved security, the next-gen satellite will offer expanded frequency bands to accommodate the increasing demand for high-capacity data transmission.
This collaboration follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Lockheed Martin and Mitsubishi Electric aimed at exploring geostationary defense communications. Both companies are currently evaluating further opportunities to provide satellite solutions to Japan and other partners across the Asia-Pacific region.
Schrader added, “With decades of experience in defense and international partnerships, we understand the mission priorities of our customers in the Asia-Pacific. We are excited to offer a common payload solution for global partners seeking secure, anti-jamming communication in geostationary orbit.”
