Japan successfully launches an intelligence-gathering satellite to watch for North Korean missiles

Japan successfully launched a rocket carrying a government intelligence-gathering satellite to watch movements at military sites in North Korea and improve responses to natural disasters. The optical satellite, launched by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, will bolster Japan's information-gathering capability as it aims to set up a network of 10 satellites. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's administration, following the adoption of its national security strategy in 2022, aims to enhance strike capabilities by deploying long-range US-manufactured Tomahawk missiles and other cruise missiles as early as the coming year.