Indo-Pacific Advisory (IPA) Appoints Japan's Makoto Higashi as Board Advisor to Advance Strategic and Emerging Technology Initiatives

Indo-Pacific Advisory is delighted to announce that Makoto Higashi, a mentor, guide, and friend for over two decades, has joined us in his new capacity as a Board Advisor. A leading thinker on Japan’s strategic affairs—particularly in space, technology, aerospace, and defense—Higashi-san is at the forefront of integrating emerging technologies to solve global challenges. Currently serving as CEO of BlazEast Inc., he drives innovation by facilitating cross-industry collaborations and previously honed his commitment to technological solutions at NTT DATA GC Inc.

Before his current role, Higashi-san spearheaded advances in satellite imaging as CEO and later Executive Advisor at Japan Space Imaging Corp., and enriched the geospatial sector through his leadership at Weathernews Inc. (WNI USA), Hitachi, Ltd.’s Defense Systems Company, the Remote Sensing Technology Center (RESTEC), and ImageOne. His career began at Oceanroutes Japan Ltd. in 1978, where he rose to become CEO and Vice President of Operations at its San Francisco headquarters. This rich history spans nearly five decades of global leadership in operations, business development, and satellite technology, earning Higashi-san a distinguished reputation across Japan’s geospatial and broader tech ecosystems.

Beyond these professional milestones, Higashi-san has been a trusted friend and guide, sharing his insights and mentorship with us for over 20 years. His depth of experience and passion for innovation align seamlessly with Indo-Pacific Advisory’s commitment to advancing transformative growth across the region.

We are honored to welcome Higashi-san in his new role as Board Advisor and look forward to leveraging his unparalleled leadership and expertise in shaping the future of emerging technologies and strategic endeavors across the Indo-Pacific. Join us in celebrating this exciting new chapter for both Higashi-san and Indo-Pacific Advisory.