MDA Space, a trusted mission partner to the rapidly expanding global space industry, has been selected by Mitsubishi Electric Corporation to design and manufacture the digital payload, antennas and various subsystems for the next-generation defence communications satellite program ordered by the Japan Ministry of Defense. This satellite program will replace DSN-2, also known as Kirameki-2, in geostationary orbit.

MDA Space in the UK will support the core technology for the advanced, anti-jamming, resilient multi-beam payload with digital beamforming that can be dynamically reconfigured in orbit. The MDA Space facility in Montréal will manufacture and test the advanced antenna solutions, including the analog repeater before shipping to Japan, where the assembly, integration and testing will be performed by Mitsubishi Electric.

The satellite will also be supported by MDA Space's legacy products for the deployable mechanism of thrusters and reflectors. The announcement comes as the UK, Canada and Japan endeavour to strengthen their trade relationships. The contract will be added to MDA Space's backlog in the second quarter of fiscal 2026.

"It's an honour for us to once again be collaborating with long-time customer Mitsubishi Electric, this time to provide key technology for Japan's critical defence communication infrastructure," said Mike Greenley, CEO of MDA Space. "Our advanced dual-use technologies combined with the expertise and reach of our global satellite team ideally position MDA Space to respond to robust demand for sovereign missions with secure and flexible capabilities." 

"Our partnerships with Canada and Japan are delivering real results, helping to build secure, resilient space infrastructure for modern defence. It's great to see UK capability at the centre of this, with MDA Space's UK facility providing the digital beamforming technology supporting Japan's future defence communications." commented Liz Lloyd, UK Space Minister.

"Today's MDA Space announcement shows what's possible when a global Canadian company and the Government of Canada work together to unlock new opportunities for Canadian businesses and workers. We are strengthening Canada's capacity to innovate and to compete in important markets such as Japan and advancing our commitment to trade diversification. Canada will continue to help businesses scale, innovate, and reach customers around the world. When we expand trade and investment opportunities, we create good jobs at home and ensure Canadian companies can succeed on the world stage." commented Hon. Maninder Sidhu, Canada's Minister of International Trade.

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