The rocket, jointly developed by Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and the nation's leading heavy machinery maker Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, blasted off from the Tanegashima Space Center in Kagoshima prefecture on Monday to deliver a Defense Ministry satellite to an altitude of about 36,000 kilometers.
The latest mission highlights Japan's efforts to strengthen its space capabilities amid growing competition from U.S.-based space transportation company SpaceX, known for its reusable rocket technology and numerous successful launches.
The H3 rocket series is set to replace Japan's veteran H2A vehicle, which has served as the country's primary launch vehicle for more than two decades.
The launch, originally planned for Oct. 20, faced multiple delays due to adverse weather conditions before Monday's successful liftoff, JAXA said.
The defense satellite will join two others already in orbit to enhance communications for Japan's Self-Defense Forces.
