Japan eyes mass drone use for coastal defense

The 'Shield' defense system will involve more than 10 types of drones, including those for attacking enemy ships, collecting information and protecting radar sites, to thwart enemy advances in a multilayered manner.

The government's fiscal 2026 budget bill allocates around 100 billion yen for the drone defense system, which the ministry aims to implement in fiscal 2027.

Drones have been deployed in large numbers during the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, and they are said to have changed the nature of conflict.

"If we just keep the conventional way of combat, we'll be left behind," said a senior ministry official.

However, many challenges need to be addressed before drones can be incorporated into Japan's defense systems.

Regarding communications with drones, a senior Ground Self-Defense Force official noted the need to "adjust frequency bands to avoid affecting televisions and smartphones."

In addition, a ministry official said training locations and methods must be carefully considered.

In January, a reconnaissance drone crashed into a nearby field due to strong wind during a training session at the GSDF's Kirishima training area straddling Miyazaki and Kagoshima prefectures in southwestern Japan.

The GSDF had about 1,200 drones as of the end of March last year, and it urgently needs to train personnel who can operate various drones.

Japan also needs to develop drone production facilities at home.

According to the ministry, about 2.3 million drones were manufactured in Ukraine in 2024 amid Russia's attack, partly reflecting rapid technological progress.

"Creating foundations that allow for quick and mass procurement (of drones), as well as repair and upgrades, is important in terms of strengthening deterrence power," Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said at a ministry meeting.

Nevertheless, a ministry official noted that companies find it difficult to predict demand for drones in Japan.

The ministry plans to strengthen its cooperation with the defense industry and research institutes to ensure the country's ability to continue fighting.