Program Description

PICHTR’s J-StarX program was an intensive two-week event designed to foster relationships, provide diverse experiences, and offer new perspectives to participating Japanese tech companies. The program aimed to connect these companies with relevant individuals and organizations to help them explore product-market fit and potential contracts in the United States Government, with a focus on US Department of Defense (DoD). The inaugural cohort featured five high-caliber companies chosen for their advanced development and potential for defense dual-use applications. The following year, eight new companies formed the second cohort.

J-StarX – Cohort 2 (Japan-Honolulu 2024-25)

• Diarkis – Resilient near real-time data-sharing infrastructure (originating from large-scale online games) for defense and simulation use.
• Innophys Co., Ltd. – Back and arm exoskeletons using artificial muscles with no external power.
• AirKamuy Inc. – Biodegradable, low-cost cardboard UAVs for ISR, logistics, and training.
• Elephantech Inc. – Sustainable PCB manufacturing via copper inkjet printing and plating.
• LQUOM, Inc. – Quantum repeaters for ultra-secure long-distance quantum communications.
• Letara – Plastic-fueled spacecraft engines (high-thrust, throttleable, re-ignition capable).
• Ookuma Diamond Device (ODD) – Diamond semiconductor devices for high-power RF in harsh environments.
• Prodrone – Unmanned helicopters and Sea & Air hybrid drones for emergency response and surveillance.

J-StarX – Cohort 1 (Japan-Honolulu 2023-24)

• Infostellar, Inc. – Satellite ground-station sharing platform (StellarStation).
• Aerosense, Inc. – Drone/autonomous flight solutions for inspection, surveying, and logistics.
• TERRA LABO Co., Ltd. – Next-generation UAV/VTOL and industrial platform technologies.
• Mitsufuji Corporation – Wearable IoT and conductive-textile smart garments.
• VFR Inc. – Drone and unmanned-systems white-label manufacturer, Japanese quality components and processes.  (aviation/robotics).