Japan has successfully placed a defense communications satellite into orbit using its new flagship H3 Rocket.

The rocket lifted off from the Tanegashima Space Center in the southwestern prefecture of Kagoshima at 3:48 p.m. on Monday. It separated from its booster rockets and first-stage engine before releasing the satellite.

This was the third consecutive successful launch of the H3 and fourth overall. The rocket was improved after the first launch failed last year.

The satellite put into orbit supports the Defense Ministry's communication system and will allow forces deployed in distant areas to share information. Two other satellites are already in operation.

The Defense Ministry and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, or JAXA, have not released information about the size and capabilities of the satellite, citing security concerns.