The North Atlantic Alliance has begun exploring the possibility of sharing satellite launch pads with several Asia-Pacific countries. This was reported on May 10 by the Japanese newspaper Nikkei, citing sources.

According to the publication, NATO intends to recruit Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand to participate in its Starlift program. This project, launched by the alliance in 2024, unites more than ten member countries, including France, Germany, and Italy, who mutually provide access to their spaceports.

Starlift's primary goal is to ensure the rapid deployment of backup spacecraft in the event of damage or complete destruction of active satellites. The program covers both military and commercial satellite systems.

According to Nikkei, the alliance is seeking to expand space cooperation with partners in the Asia-Pacific region amid growing concerns about potential threats to satellite infrastructure.

According to sources, Tokyo is generally positive about joining the Starlift initiative, as participation in the program will strengthen the country's defense capabilities and expand its ability to respond to potential threats.

However, for Japan to actually participate, a special agreement must be concluded and a number of procedural issues must be resolved, including customs clearance of equipment crossing national borders. It is noted that interagency coordination on these issues within the Japanese government has already begun.