Image Credit: The Japan Times
Japan’s Defence Ministry will deploy U.S.-made drones for the Maritime Self-Defence Force’s warning and surveillance activities to enhance monitoring in crucial waters, including the East China Sea. Announced on Friday, the ministry outlined plans to procure 23 SeaGuardian drones over the next decade, with related expenses amounting to approximately ¥25.2 billion requested for the fiscal 2025 budget.
The SeaGuardian drones, already in operation by the Japan Coast Guard since 2022, are manufactured by a U.S. firm. Equipped with advanced cameras and radar systems, each 24-metre-wide drone can gather ship navigation data around the clock. Capable of flying non-stop for 24 hours and reaching distances of up to 4,800 kilometres, these drones are intended to significantly bolster maritime surveillance capabilities.
The ministry explained that the decision follows a successful demonstration test conducted by the Maritime Self-Defence Force, underscoring the utility of drone-based surveillance. The procurement process for the drones began in August this year, but the SeaGuardian was the sole proposal received in the public tender. Each unit’s cost is estimated at around ¥12 billion.
While specific deployment locations have yet to be determined, deliveries are slated to start in fiscal 2028. The Defence Ministry intends to accelerate preparations for full-scale operations, focusing on necessary pilot training and logistical groundwork. The move reflects Japan’s broader strategic aim to ensure robust monitoring in areas of heightened maritime tension, particularly with increased activity and security challenges in the region.