By: Ron Faith
RBC Signals has been logging the miles recently. Our most recent stop was Daejeon, South Korea, where we attended the International Space Summit. There are many exciting developments across the space industry, and we came away from the conference with the following observations.
The space industry is truly global
It is easy to focus on the space race between the United States and China, as well as developments in Europe. However, because the cost of manufacturing and launching satellites has declined significantly, we are seeing space industry ambitions emerge from many more countries. Beyond the traditional space powers in Asia—such as China, India, and Japan—we are seeing other nations become significant players. Countries such as South Korea, Thailand, and Central Asian nations, including Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, are expanding their space capabilities at an impressive pace.
International collaboration is critical to success
Unlike the traditional superpowers, which may be in a position to “go it alone,” many companies across Asia are working together to develop their space capabilities. These capabilities span launch, satellite manufacturing, payload development, and ground station infrastructure. Companies are looking for partners with a global perspective and a long-term relationship mindset.
Asian countries are using space to leapfrog traditional infrastructure
In India, traditional landline communications infrastructure was leapfrogged by wireless communications. We are now seeing similar ambitions across Asia as countries adopt space-based capabilities. These range from satellite-based direct-to-device communications to broadband connectivity from orbit. Emerging applications also include using satellite IoT to monitor small fishing fleets operating within territorial waters throughout the region.
Space is critical to national defense in Asia
Governments across Asia are making significant investments in space-based defense capabilities. Earth observation, signals intelligence, missile warning and tracking, and secure satellite communications were once the sole province of the world’s superpowers. Today, these capabilities are within reach of many countries in the region, and national budgets increasingly reflect those investments.
Looking ahead
When visiting Asia, one cannot help but believe the future is being built through deep partnerships and pragmatic optimism.
At RBC Signals, we look forward to supporting the continued growth and success of this critical region—and helping connect it to the globe and beyond.