Japan launches defence satellite carried by new flagship H3 rocket

The launch was set to take place on October 20 (Kyodo News via AP)

Japan has launched a defence satellite designed for information-gathering and military operations on a new flagship H3 rocket, as the country seeks to build up its military capability amid growing tension in the region.

The H3 No 4 rocket lifted off from the Tanegashima Space Centre on a south-western Japanese island.