B-MAP Sets Up Space Defense Lab in N. Mariana Islands

B-MAP Inc. is pleased to announce that it has decided to establish the “Space Defense Communications Research Institute” on Saipan, a U.S. territory in the Northern Mariana Islands, in collaboration with Spicy USA Ltd., a U.S. subsidiary of SpicyCompany Inc., a business partner in the space and defense business.

The institute will function as an advanced research and development center for satellite communications, long-distance wireless, drones, LEO orbit-compatible systems, and defense sensor development, and will also simultaneously launch feasibility studies on next-generation space, defense, and communications technologies.

The Northern Mariana Islands, with its geographical location close to the equator and vast ocean to the east, is positioned as a strategic base suitable for space launches and the construction of security infrastructure. Furthermore, as a U.S. territory, U.S. regulations on communications are less restrictive than those in Japan, making it possible to conduct cutting-edge communications technology research that is currently not possible in Japan.

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The Institute has the following goals:

・Demonstration experiment using long-distance wireless, which is BMap’s main business

・Conducting a demonstration experiment of a tactical FPV drone with autonomous flight and AI guidance

・Feasibility study on the launch and operation of picosatellites (ultra-small satellites)

・Strengthening surveillance networks ・Promoting research into dual-use (civilian and defense) technologies.

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