The Space Operations Group (宇宙作戦群, Uchū Sakusengun) is a Japan Air and Space Self-Defense Force unit based at Fuchu Air Base in Fuchu, Tokyo.[1] It is responsible for the JASDF's space domain awareness capability, integrating surveillance data from a sensor near Sanyo-Onoda in Yamaguchi Prefecture, along with data supplied by JAXA and the United States Space Force. The unit also conducts satellite navigation and satellite communications for other military units.[2][3][4]

Space Operations Group
宇宙作戦群
SOG logo.
Founded18 May 2020 (4 years, 6 months)[1]
Country Japan
Branch Japan Air Self-Defense Force
RoleSpace operations
HeadquartersFuchū Air Base
Insignia
Flag

History

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The former Space Operations Squadron was established in 18 May 2020 in a ceremony held by the Japanese Ministry of Defense with 20 JASDF personnel.[5] As of December 2022, the SOS have around 150 personnel.[6] In FY 2020, the "2nd Space Operations Squadron" was set up at Hōfu Air Field.[7][8]

On March 17, 2022, the "Space Operations Group" was established[9] with 150 airmen.[6] The "Space Operations Command Center Operation Squadron" was established on March 18, 2022 with 30 airmen.[10]

On March 16, 2023, the Space Operations Squadron was reorganized into the "1st Space Operations Squadron." The "Space Systems Management Squadron" was established.

Organization

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The SOG is established with the following structure as of 2023:[11][12]

  • Space Operations Group Headquarters
  • Space Operations Command Center Operation Squadron
  • 1st Space Operations Squadron
  • 2nd Space Operations Squadron
  • Space System Management Squadron

See also

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References

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  1. ^ a b Johnston, Eric (2 June 2020). "Japan's new space squadron takes a giant leap forward". Japan Times. Retrieved 12 June 2021.
  2. ^ "Japan accelerates defense capability enhancement in new domains". Kyodo News. 3 May 2021. Retrieved 12 June 2021.
  3. ^ "Future Space Wars: Japan To Create Military SSA Unit, Incorporate AI Into Self-Defence Forces". SpaceWatch.Global. 22 November 2018. Retrieved 12 June 2021.
  4. ^ Farley, Robert (23 April 2021). "Managing the Military Problem of Space: The Case of Japan". The Diplomat. Retrieved 12 June 2021.
  5. ^ "Japan sets up its first 'Space Operations Squadron'". Janes. 18 May 2020. Retrieved 9 October 2021.
  6. ^ a b Klinkenborg, Emily (17 January 2023). "DEL 3 strengthens future of Japan's space operations". Space Operations Command (SPOC). Retrieved 3 July 2023.
  7. ^ "第2宇宙作戦隊を山口に配備へ 人工衛星への電波妨害監視 岸防衛相:朝日新聞デジタル". 14 November 2021.
  8. ^ "令和4年度に自衛隊防府北基地へ第2宇宙作戦隊が新編されます - 防府市公式ホームページ".
  9. ^ https://www.mod.go.jp/asdf/English_page/news/release/2022/20220319-1en.pdf [bare URL PDF]
  10. ^ "自衛隊「宇宙作戦群」編成 対露脅威への備え急ぐ". 18 March 2022.
  11. ^ "NEWS TOKYO 都政新聞株式会社 | 仕事に命を賭けて Vol.175".
  12. ^ https://www.city.sanyo-onoda.lg.jp/uploaded/attachment/47096.pdf [bare URL PDF]
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