Japan belatedly plans to introduce armed UAVs
The JGSDF has deployed Insitu’s ScanEagle UAV, but the country is now eyeing armed UAVs and loitering munitions. (Koji Miyake)
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.
The Japanese MoD has decided to trial armed UAVs from FY2023, according to Japanese media, and it will introduce hundreds of them from FY2025 onwards.
The UAVs to be tested will likely be mainly loitering munitions such as the Israeli Harop or American Switchblade. Furthermore, missile-carrying UAVs in the category of the Turkish Bayraktar TB2 will also be introduced.
The only UAVs currently in use by Japan are for reconnaissance missions, such as the Japan Air Self-Defense Force’s RQ-4 Global Hawk, and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force’s ScanEagles and FFOS/FFRS observation rotary-winged UAVs.
The Japanese MoD has belatedly decided
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
![FIA 2026: Embraer, Anduril sign agreement to develop cruise missile launch capability for the C-390]()
FIA 2026: Embraer, Anduril sign agreement to develop cruise missile launch capability for the C-390
The Brazilian airframer and US developer have announced plans to offer a palletised launch system for the twinjet tactical airlifter.
-
![US Marine Corps unveils first standardised drone platform for training and general use]()
US Marine Corps unveils first standardised drone platform for training and general use
The USMC is moving to make the Neros Archer FPV its primary drone while it rapidly expands attack-drone capabilities across the Fleet Marine Force.
-
![FIA 2026: KAI showcases vision for crewed and uncrewed hybrid fighter formation]()
FIA 2026: KAI showcases vision for crewed and uncrewed hybrid fighter formation
As Korea Aerospace Industries sets out its two-tiered, crewed-and-uncrewed hybrid future air formation, Defence Insight analyses how much it could cost to fulfil the ambition.
