Japan mulls enhancing missile detecting capability

Japan is mulling to further and effectively use space to detect early signs of ballistic missile so as to boost its defense capabilities, local media reported on Saturday.

The Japanese Defense Ministry hopes to promote empirical research with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and also considered to set up a special force for space surveillance within the Self-Defense Forces, Japan's Kyodo News quoted a new space policy draft released Friday.

It is "extremely important to use space to prepare for various contingencies, including ballistic missiles," the draft said, adding that there are "grave threats to stable use of space."

The ministry also weighs to develop smaller satellites that can be lifted off easily, Kyodo quoted the draft as saying.

Currently, Japan has four information-gathering satellites.

The ministry also plans to load its infrared sensors onto JAXA' s new satellite to conduct research and improve its capabilities to analyze satellite images, said the report.

Japan has enabled JAXA to do research for the country's defense since the law concerning the agency was revised, and aimed for greater use of space under the latest defense program guidelines.

The ministry crafted the first basic policy in 2009 after Japan enacted the Basic Space Law in 2008.