Air Warfare
Japan develops long-range target observation munition to accompany missiles
19th June 2023
To guide long-range weapons, Japan is developing a new missile with the express purpose of providing observation and targeting data.
Latest news
Land Warfare
Japan to develop an unmanned amphibious vehicle
Japan is developing an unmanned version of the Mitsubishi Amphibious Vehicle (MAV) as part of efforts to improve its amphibious capabilities.
Air Warfare
Japan explores missile launching from cargo planes
Japan is considering the use of cargo planes to launch missiles, aiming to diversify its launch platform options. The introduction of the Rapid Dragon system, tested by the USAF, could expand the capabilities of the JSDF's stand-off missile arsenal.
Land Warfare
US pushes Japan to provide 155mm ammo for Ukraine
Japan is reluctant to provide lethal aid to support Ukraine's war, despite pressure from the US.
Air Warfare
Japan develops long-range target observation munition to accompany missiles
To guide long-range weapons, Japan is developing a new missile with the express purpose of providing observation and targeting data.
Naval Warfare
Japan continues development of railguns, despite doubts over their effectiveness
15th May 2023
Japan continues to invest in railguns, even though questions remain over their practical utility.
Defence Notes
Japan’s security circumstances prompt it to introduce longer-range missiles
17th April 2023
With growing threats such as China and North Korean missiles, Japan is developing long-range, standoff missiles to enhance its deterrence posture.
Land Warfare
JGSDF lines up next-generation wheeled armoured vehicles
19th March 2023
Foreign OEMs are starting to get a look-in for military vehicle programmes in Japan.
Land Warfare
Kawasaki develops C-UAS laser system for Japanese military
16th March 2023
Japan is developing an indigenous C-UAS system that uses a high-power laser.
Land Warfare
Japan selects new sniper rifles and machine guns
20th February 2023
Japan's military has selected a new 7.62mm sniper rifle and 5.56mm light machine gun.
Naval Warfare
Japan’s military enhances transport capability to offshore islands
29th January 2023
Japan, concerned by the vulnerability of its southwest archipelago, is seeking to boost its military transport capacity to the area.
Defence Notes
Japan to increase ammunition stockpiles and munition depots
11th December 2022
The ongoing Ukraine conflict is showing countries like Japan that they need to boost stocks of ammunition and missiles.
Defence Notes
Japan alters plans for Aegis missile defence yet again
14th November 2022
In another plot twist, Japan is set to reduce the size of its future Aegis missile defence destroyers.
Naval Warfare
Japan considers specialist submersibles and LRADs
11th October 2022
Recent exhibitions in Japan saw companies offering specialist equipment such as tactical submersibles and long-range acoustic devices to the Japanese military.
Air Warfare
Japan belatedly plans to introduce armed UAVs
22nd September 2022
Japan has been lagging behind in the application of military UAVs, but current conflicts have prompted it to realise the need for armed UAVs and loitering munitions.
Land Warfare
Japan mulls options for several armoured vehicle programmes
5th August 2022
Japan's military is seeking follow-on generations of 8x8 and 4x4 armoured vehicles, and overseas designs are strong contenders.
