u/Dark_rust

https://www.nikkei.com/article/DGXZQOUA252RK0V20C26A6000000/

https://x.com/Defiantclient2/status/2071513455526560042?s=20

This looks like the official Nikkei X post https://x.com/nikkei_keizai/status/2071491114155352160?s=20

FRESH OFF NIKKEI

Google Translated version:

Rakuten to launch Japanese version of Starlink; Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications provides 150 billion yen in subsidies for its own satellite communications system

The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications' project to subsidize direct communication with satellites developed by Japanese companies is expected to select a consortium of Rakuten Group companies . The project will provide a total of 150 billion yen over three years to cover costs such as satellite launches. The aim is to reduce dependence on overseas sources from an economic security perspective.

A formal decision is expected soon. Rakuten Group will partner with AST Space Mobile, a US satellite communications company in which it has invested, to develop operations in Japan. The plan will subsidize the costs of procuring and launching equipment necessary for a "satellite constellation" that links multiple low-Earth orbit satellites, as well as the development of ground facilities to control the satellites.

Rakuten Group Chairman and CEO Hiroshi Mikitani revealed in an interview with the Nikkei Shimbun that they plan to establish a new company with AST Space Mobile to handle satellite business in Japan by 2026.

Even when ground-based communication networks are unusable due to natural disasters or other reasons, satellite communication can ensure a means of communication. During the 2012 Noto Peninsula earthquake, SpaceX's "Starlink" satellite was used as an emergency measure until communication cables could be restored.

Even in mountainous areas, remote islands, and at sea, where laying fiber optic cables is difficult, satellite communication can enable the use of mobile phones.

Currently, foreign companies, led by Starlink, have a dominant position in satellite communications. However, this reliance on overseas companies carries risks, such as the sudden disruption of service provision due to management policies, or the refusal to accept requests for roaming for temporary use during disasters.

In 2025, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk mentioned blocking Ukraine's use of Starlink, allegedly pressuring them to agree to an early peace with Russia.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications has decided to launch a new project, judging that it is necessary to foster a "Japanese version of Starlink" operated by Japanese companies. It appears that no other companies besides the Rakuten Group consortium applied for this subsidy program.

On the 24th, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications announced its intention to allow direct satellite communications in the 700 megahertz band in preparation for new projects. Ministerial ordinances and other regulations are expected to be revised in September. Rakuten Group has already established a communication network connecting mobile phones and ground base stations in this frequency band.

To improve services, the use of higher frequency bands that can increase communication speeds in the future is also being considered. The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications will also consider developing a system to support direct satellite communications in high frequency bands as needed.