Rendering of the H3 launch vehicle. Photo: JAXA

Eutelsat Group signed a new launch agreement with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries for multiple launches on the H3 rocket, the companies announced Wednesday, during World Space Business Week in Paris. 

According to the Sept. 18 announcement, the launches will start in 2027. Eutelsat did not specify what satellites it plans for MHI to launch. This marks the first agreement between Eutelsat and MHI, and shows Eutelsat is diversifying its launch suppliers. 

“Access to space is critical for operators like Eutelsat, and we are excited to add MHI to our portfolio of launches,” commented Arlen Kassighian, chief engineering officer of Eutelsat Group.

H3 is the new flagship rocket for Japanese launcher MHI. The rocket has flown two successful flights this year, recently launching the ALOS-4 Earth observation satellite for JAXA in July. Its first flight in March of 2023 failed. 

Iwao Igarashi, vice president and senior general manager of Space Systems at MHI commented: “MHI deeply appreciates the honor of entering into the first launch agreement with Eutelsat, the global leading satellite operator, and being selected as their launch partner to deploy their satellites. MHI is committed to delivering highly reliable and transparent launch services for its customers that build market trust through the accumulation of successful launches.”