Apex Secures Contract to Power NEC's Optical Satellite Tech Demo

Satellite manufacturer Apex to provide standardized bus for NEC's upcoming mission, expanding global reach.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 7:43am

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A highly detailed, glowing 3D illustration of a satellite bus with intricate cybernetic components and neon cyan and magenta lights, representing the advanced technology powering NEC's optical communications demonstration mission.Apex's standardized satellite bus powers NEC's cutting-edge optical communications technology, paving the way for a new era of advanced space-based connectivity.Los Angeles Today

Apex, a leading satellite manufacturer, has secured a contract with Japanese technology company NEC to provide a satellite bus for an upcoming optical communications technology demonstration mission. The partnership highlights Apex's growing global appeal and NEC's ambitious plans for a satellite constellation using advanced optical communications.

Why it matters

This collaboration represents a significant milestone in the space industry, showcasing the potential for innovative partnerships between companies with complementary expertise. As Apex expands its international reach and scales up production, it positions itself as a key player in the global satellite market, catering to both government and commercial customers.

The details

Under the contract, Apex will provide its standardized Aries satellite bus to power NEC's upcoming technology demonstration mission, which is expected to take place in 2027. The partnership aligns with NEC's goals for a satellite constellation using optical communications, a technology that could revolutionize satellite communications. Apex's CEO, Ian Cinnamon, emphasized the company's focus on global expansion, particularly in Japan, where increased space and defense spending has created new opportunities.

  • Apex and NEC signed the contract in April 2026.
  • The technology demonstration mission is scheduled for 2027.

The players

Apex

A renowned satellite manufacturer based in Los Angeles, California, known for its standardized satellite buses.

NEC

A Japanese technology company with ambitious plans for a satellite constellation using optical communications technology.

Ian Cinnamon

The CEO of Apex, who has been leading the company's global expansion efforts.

Yasushi Yokoyama

The General Manager of NEC's Satellite Constellation Department, who emphasized the potential of the Apex-NEC partnership.

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What they’re saying

“This collaboration represents the synergy between advanced mission payload design and standardized satellite platforms, and it has the potential to redefine the speed of development from planning to launch.”

— Yasushi Yokoyama, General Manager, NEC Satellite Constellation Department

“We believe in the global appeal of our standardized satellite buses, and Japan, with its increasing space and defense spending, has been a key area of focus for Apex.”

— Ian Cinnamon, CEO, Apex

What’s next

If the initial technology demonstration mission with NEC's optical communications payload is successful, Apex and NEC may explore a larger order for additional satellite buses to support NEC's planned satellite constellation.

The takeaway

This partnership between Apex and NEC showcases the potential for innovative collaborations in the global space industry, where standardized satellite platforms and advanced mission payloads can come together to drive technological advancements and expand market reach.