JAXA Prepares New Unmanned Supply Craft for ISS Delivery

Jun 03, 2025 | News On Japan

KAGOSHIMA, Jun 03, 2025 (News On Japan) - The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) on June 2nd unveiled its new unmanned cargo spacecraft, the HTV-X, at the Tanegashima Space Center in Kagoshima Prefecture. Designed to transport supplies to the International Space Station (ISS), the HTV-X is undergoing final preparations for launch within fiscal 2025.

This marks the first time the complete HTV-X, including its external experimental equipment, has been shown to the media. The agency plans to launch the first unit of the next-generation supply vehicle aboard an H3 rocket, Japan’s newest heavy-lift launch vehicle.

The HTV-X is the successor to the H-II Transfer Vehicle (HTV), also known as Kounotori, which was previously used to deliver cargo to the ISS. With improved performance and cost-efficiency, the HTV-X represents a key element in Japan’s continued participation in international space missions.

Source: Kyodo

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