Aerospace & Defense Industries
Mitsubishi Heavy considered for possible transfer of launch operations
The successful H3 launch on Oct. 19 led Japanese officials to conclude that now is the time to transfer operations to the private sector. (Photo by Sae Kamae)
KENTO FUKUI, MIKI HIASA and TAITO KUROSE
October 20, 2026 22:59 JST
TOKYO -- Japan plans to begin discussions with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries on transferring responsibility to the company for launch operations of the country's flagship H3 rocket, looking to complete the transition by 2027.