Kitakyushu promotes space industry entry for local manufacturing firms

A recent study session and consultation event held in Kitakyushu highlighted how local manufacturing companies can enter the space industry by leveraging existing technical expertise. The event, organized by Kitakyushu City and Deloitte Tohmatsu West Japan Advisory, focused on bridging the gap between traditional manufacturing and space technology.

Speakers emphasized that space components, such as satellite assembly tools, lunar lander structures, and power systems, require a wide range of skills including precision machining, welding, piping, and sensing. These are often extensions of technologies used in industries like steel and automotive manufacturing.

Ogawa Kiko Co., Ltd., a small manufacturer from Kurume, Fukuoka, shared its experience of transitioning into satellite development. Despite having no prior space industry track record, the company utilized its core strength in custom machinery design and problem-solving to participate in projects initiated through connections with Kyushu University. Kitakyushu City continues to support this growth through a network of approximately 120 participating companies, providing matching services and research support.