Japan kind-of completes its sovereign satnav constellation

Japan has recently launched the last satellite of its current generation in the sovereign satellite navigation constellation. The satellite, named Michibiki No. 7 or QZS-7, was successfully placed into orbit on Tuesday morning aboard the H3 rocket, a mid-range launcher operated by Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). JAXA has had nine successful flights with the H3, but one mission in December 2025 failed due to glue issues.

The QZSS system's primary purpose is to provide universal coverage and improved location accuracy within Japan, as GPS signals can struggle to reach certain areas, particularly mountainous regions and densely populated cities. Equipped with an inclined geostationary orbit, the QZSS satellites ensure they are nearly always above Japan, delivering excellent local service.

The system currently consists of seven orbiters, with the first QZSS satellite launched in 2010 and the final four satellites added between 2017 and 2021. Plans are in place to add another three satellites in the 2030s, but no replacement for QZS-5 is currently scheduled. Japan now has enhanced satnav coverage and greater confidence in the reliability of the H3 rocket.