Sharp to "challenge" Starlink dominance with its satellite antennas

A recent report in Nikkei Asia says that Japanese electronics giant Sharp intends to challenge with SpaceX firm Starlink's dominance in satellite connectvity on the back of a universal satellite antenna designed to track MEO and LEO satellites. The firm reportedly anticipates demand coming from a desire for alternative networks. Starlink has become a pivotal element in superyacht connectivity. 

During the forthcoming CEATEC 2026 in Japan, Sharp is presenting satellite terminals that use proprietary beam control to accurately track non-geostationary MEO and LEO satellites and maintain optimal connectivity on moving platforms exposed to motion and vibration. Using compact, lightweight technologies developed for smartphones, they support vessels, vehicles, construction and agricultural machinery, and drones.

The antenna will let users easily switch between services instead of relying on specific providers, such as SpaceX, according to the report. According to Nikkei Asia, Sharp plans to roll out terminals with universal antennas in 2030. Sharp plans to make its terminals small enough for boat or drone mountings.

Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications is supporting plans to create new compact, lightweight universal antennas in a bid to reduce reliance on specific providers. Sharp aims for its terminal to handle applications requiring high data volumes, such as autonomous driving and remote control of construction equipment.

^{Sharp is developing lightweight satellite antenna with data volumes high enough to support autonomous cars}

In 2025, Sharp Corporation announced an agreement with Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation, the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology and TECHLAB Co., Ltd. to develop ultra-compact and lightweight LEO (Low Earth Orbit) satellite communication user terminals for mobility applications. On June 30, 2026, Sharp Corporation signed a Memorandum of Understanding with satellite operator and space solutions provider SES to collaborate on satellite communication services. The two companies will begin discussions toward deploying SES's Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) satellite communication services in Japan.

Luxembourg-based SES operates an integrated multi-orbit network of around 120 satellites combined with global terrestrial network. The company offers significant service to the commercial and offshore maritime industries. 

Sharp is working on new businesses to replace its liquid crystal display operations, according to the Nikkei report. Satellite terminals and AI servers are among the five fields it has identified as potential new growth drivers.