News

Rikei Corporation (Headquarters: Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan; President & CEO: Satoru Isaka; hereinafter “Rikei”) has entered into a strategic partnership agreement with ELM Inc. (Headquarters: Minamisatsuma-shi, Kagoshima, Japan; CEO: Takakazu Miyahara; hereinafter “ELM”).

Through this collaboration, Rikei and ELM will address the growing demand for Japan-made ground station and satellite tracking antennas, jointly develop products with improved maintainability, and provide mutual technical support and domestic repair services to enhance customer satisfaction.

Background and Details of the Partnership

As demand for satellite data utilization has grown rapidly in recent years, a growing number of satellites—primarily launched by startup companies—have entered orbit. Consequently, the need for ground stations has also been increasing.

However, most antennas currently used in Japan are manufactured overseas, and stable operation can be difficult under Japan’s climate conditions. In addition, repairs often take considerable time, highlighting the need for faster and more reliable support.

As a result, demand for Japan-made antennas has been rising. To meet this need, Rikei has entered into a strategic partnership with ELM—an antenna manufacturer with a proven track record in academic institutions—to jointly advance the design, development, and manufacturing of antennas.

Through this collaboration, Rikei and ELM aim to deliver highly reliable Japan-made antennas and establish a system that enables rapid repair support within Japan. Looking ahead, the partners plan to expand into both domestic and global markets, positioning these products as highly reliable “Japan Brand” antennas.

Leveraging the Combined Strengths of Rikei and ELM

Rikei brings over 40 years of experience in the satellite business, with a proven ability to accurately identify customer needs and a robust sales network. In antenna manufacturing, Rikei leverages its strong procurement capabilities to support ELM’s manufacturing operations. Together, the two companies deliver high-quality products and enhance customer satisfaction through rapid domestic repair services.

Moreover, by collaborating with Micro Lab Co., Ltd. (Head Office: Fukuoka, Japan; President & CEO: Kengo Wada), an ELM group company, the partnership aims to expand into satellite components and create a multifaceted space business.

Roles and Responsibilities of Each Company

Rikei

• Expand sales in Japan and international markets by leveraging existing customer relationships

• Identify customer needs and plan/implement branding strategies in Japan

• Provide procurement support for components and materials

• Install and fine-tune antennas

• Offer technical support for maintenance and servicing

ELM

• Design, develop, and manufacture antennas, optical communication terminals, and other satellite components

• Establish and operate a repair center

About ELM Inc.

ELM Inc., headquartered in Minamisatsuma, Kagoshima, is a technology-driven company that has been developing and delivering innovative products across a wide range of fields—including agriculture, lighting, energy, and space—since its establishment in 1980. Guided by the philosophy of delivering technological capabilities from local communities that rival those of major urban centers, ELM leverages its fully in-house, end-to-end development capabilities to create comprehensive solutions and expand globally in collaboration with partners in Japan and overseas.

The company focuses on developing unique, one-of-a-kind products that harness its proprietary technologies—such as specialized LED lighting systems, solar tracking power generation systems, optical disc restoration devices, and satellite tracking systems.
Embracing the belief that “The absence of something in the world means opportunity,” ELM continues to take on new challenges as a company committed to turning society’s dreams into reality.

About Rikei Corporation

Since its establishment in 1957 as a solution vendor in the IT and electronics industries, Rikei Corporation has provided a variety of solutions ranging from systems to networks, VR/AR contents, electronic materials and electronic devices.

Rikei proposes solutions that utilize cutting-edge technologies and advanced products from Japan and overseas, and contributes to business development such as improving efficiency of operations and profits of customers.

*Product and company names mentioned herein are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.