Japan Defense Ministry

Japan's Defense Ministry has announced a plan to support startups developing unmanned aerial vehicles. The initiative aims to draw young technology companies into the defense sector and accelerate domestic drone development, an area where Japan has lagged. It reflects Tokyo's broader push to strengthen its defense industrial base and expand cooperation with private-sector innovators.

Japan's Defense Ministry is set to launch a new framework for incorporating technology from startups into its defense capabilities. The initiative aims to give emerging companies a clearer route to work with the military, an area where small firms have traditionally struggled to gain entry. Defense officials hope the move will speed up adoption of cutting-edge civilian technology at a time of regional security tensions.