TOKYO (Kyodo) — Japan’s Defense Ministry is soliciting research proposals from private companies as part of efforts to develop small rockets that can quickly launch alternative satellites if existing ones in space are attacked or malfunction.

Around 70 million yen ($444,000) has been allocated in the fiscal 2026 budget for the research initiative aimed at expediting space transport.

In filtering the research proposals, the ministry said it will study the development costs as well as the methods and time required for manufacturing the rockets and decide on a contractor by February next year.

The ministry also envisages the use of 3D printers and other tools to efficiently manufacture rocket parts and is considering whether launches will be carried out from land, sea or air.

“From a security perspective, it is critical to rapidly restore the functionality of satellites, particularly during emergencies,” Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi told a press conference in October, pointing to the need for swift access to space.

Japan currently relies on overseas rockets for about half of its satellite launches, according to the government.

Japan operates a small satellite constellation to monitor targets. Experts have warned that China and Russia are developing “killer satellites” that can attack other countries’ satellites and disable them.

The ministry hopes that the initiative will spur technological innovation among private companies and contribute to the development of the space industry, seen as a growth sector by the government of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.

Satellites have become indispensable for communication and accurate positioning on Earth.

“The world of space transport is entering an era of great transformation. I hope a new globally competitive system will emerge from our country,” Koizumi said.