Japan Expands Military Technology Drive with Focus on Combat Drones and AI

Japan is strengthening its defence capabilities with a focus on combat drones and advanced military technologies as modern warfare undergoes rapid transformation. The government has stressed the need to adapt to new battlefield methods, particularly after observing the growing role of unmanned systems in conflicts such as the war in Ukraine.

In its latest defence policy paper approved by the Cabinet, Japan highlighted the importance of artificial intelligence (AI), autonomous systems and faster technological development to address emerging security challenges. The country has identified combat drones as a key priority and plans to combine them with long-range missile capabilities for coastal defence.

The move comes amid rising concerns over China’s expanding military presence in the Pacific. Japan’s defence assessment described China as its biggest strategic challenge, citing increased naval activity, rapid military modernisation and growing missile capabilities. Tokyo has also expressed concerns over military cooperation between China and Russia, as well as North Korea’s advancing missile programmes.

Japan’s Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Agency has selected four companies from 38 applicants for a rapid drone development programme, with testing planned before final selection. Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi has emphasised that speed is essential in developing next-generation defence technologies.

While Japanese companies are showing greater interest in military applications, experts warn that building a fully domestic drone industry will be challenging due to limited commercial production and reliance on imports.

Japan is also strengthening its defence industry through increased research funding, startup support and international partnerships as it prepares for an era increasingly shaped by drone warfare and AI-driven military systems.