Mitsubishi Electric to Double Satellite Component Production Capacity

Mitsubishi Electric Corporation has started constructing a facility that will double the satellite-component production capacity of its Kamakura Works, Sagami Factory in Sagamihara, Japan. The factory is Mitsubishi Electric’s core production and testing site for solar array panels, structural panels and other satellite components. The new facility, which will commence production in October 2017, is expected to help the company continue growing its share of the global satellite market.

Mitsubishi Electric is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of satellite components, most notably structures made with advanced composite materials for the global market. The company has a rich history of providing global satellite manufacturers with solar array panels, structural panels and antennas produced at its Kamakura Works. Over the years, Mitsubishi Electric has developed a substantial share of this market.

The new facility will introduce a number of advanced manufacturing machines, such as high-precision machining equipment and automated welding machines, which will help the factory to double its production capacity. Existing machines currently dispersed throughout the factory will be concentrated in the new facility. The realization of seamlessly integrated production processes — from component and panel production to final testing — and improved productivity through the application of information technology, will further increase production efficiency, shorten production time, reduce costs and elevate product quality.

Going forward, this advanced new facility is expected to strengthen Mitsubishi Electric’s flexibility and speed in adapting to global market demands and thereby enhance the company’s position in the global market.

Mitsubishi Electric is a leading manufacturer supporting space research and development in Japan. The company has participated in the production of more than 500 domestic and international satellites as either the prime contractor or a major subcontractor.