Japan to hand H3 rocket launches to Mitsubishi Heavy as early as 2027

Japan is preparing to transfer operation of its flagship H3 rocket from the state space agency JAXA to Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. The move aims to cut launch costs and make the country's main launcher a more credible rival to SpaceX in the commercial market, with the handover possibly starting as early as 2027.

• H3 operations will shift from JAXA to Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
• The handover could begin as early as 2027
• Goal is lower launch costs and competition with SpaceX