On January 10, Japan Infra Waymark (JIW), a drone-based infrastructure inspection company founded by NTT West Corporation in 2019, announced the launch of beta trials for its infrastructure inspection record-keeping app, “Waymark Note”. Available to companies that sign up for the beta, the app is designed to improve the efficiency of on-site infrastructure inspections, addressing the pressing challenge of Japan’s aging infrastructure – a critical factor in effectively managing natural disaster risks.
 
Development Background to “Waymark Note”
 
JIW explains that Waymark Note was developed based on feedback the company received from the company’s drone inspections of over 1,000 bridges nationwide. The company also highlighted the challenging demands of conducting on-site inspections amid Japan’s aging infrastructure and labor shortages.
 
In 2022, Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT), which mandates bridge inspections every five years, reported that by 2032, 59% of Japan's 730,000 bridges will be 50 years old or older. This aging infrastructure is expected to lead to serious damage in some structures, particularly those located in harsh environments [1].
 

Example given by MLIT of serious corrosion to a steel-constructed bridge pier
【Image Source: Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism】
https://www.mlit.go.jp/road/sisaku/yobohozen/torikumi.pdf

MLIT also noted in 2022 that the percentage of municipalities that do not have civil engineers involved in Japan’s bridge management is 5% for cities, 22% for towns, and 56% for villages [2].
 
JIW observed during the development of its Waymark Note app that the use of drones for bridge inspections significantly enhanced the efficiency of the inspection process. However, several challenges persisted in recording and organizing inspection data. These issues included low work efficiency, errors in handwritten records, and the time-consuming task of sorting and managing photos off-site.
 
Waymark Note’s Key Features
 
To address such issues, JIW has developed the following features for Waymark Note:

1) Integrated Display and Document Management:
●Users can register, view and edit on-site damage charts and component number diagrams, as well as photo albums and other documents – eliminating the need for bulky paper-based on-site documentation.

2) Automatic Photo Organization:
●Automatically links photo numbers with on-site photos based on their order of capture, allowing most photo organization to be completed on-site.

3) Bridge Inspection-Specific Input Tools:
● Provides input tools specifically designed for bridge inspections, including pre-set terms for damage types and components - based on “Bridge Periodic Inspection Guidelines” issued by Japan’s MLIT.

JIW explained that it had tested and used various other commercially available apps during the course of its drone-based bridge inspections, but that no app aimed at improving the efficiency of on-site inspection records fully met the company’s requirements.
 
JIW is encouraging Waymark Note’s beta users to use the app in a variety of situations in addition to bridge inspections, including plant facility, tunnel and slope inspections.
 
Alternative to Waymark Note Bridge Inspections
 
Numerous other domestic and international companies also offer app-based bridge inspection solutions in order to meet MLIT's requirement for regular bridge inspections every five years.
 
Domestically, options include “Smartphone Inspector” by IHI and “MAPLET SM,” co-developed by Nippon Computer Systems Corporation and Japan Computer Systems Co., Ltd. On the international front, U.S.-based Bentley Systems provides a globally available solution, “AssetWise Inspections Mobile,” which is also being marketed on the company’s Japanese-language website.
 
The pros and cons of each app can be summarized as follows:

Waymark Note:
+ Optimized for photo-centric workflows for Japan’s aging infrastructure – including bridges but also planned for a range of infrastructure including tunnels, etc.
+ Incorporates MLIT’s national terminologies for damage and structural components.
− Currently not compatible with iPhone or Android devices.
− Local government-specific technical terms are not pre-registered, requiring customers to register them themselves.
 
Smartphone Inspector:
+  Compact and convenient smartphone-based solution. 
+  Android app and web browser-based app available.
−  Designed for road bridge inspections only.   
−  No dedicated app for iPad or iPhone.
 
Maplet SM:
+ Comprehensive mapping capabilities with in-built bridge database.
+ Can compare historical inspection information by date.
− Designed for bridge inspections only.
− Not compatible with iPhone or Android devices.
 
AssetWise Inspections:
+ Compatible with Android-based devices, iPhone, and iPad.
+ Designed for not only bridges, but also a range of fixed objects including tunnels, culverts, signs, light poles and retaining walls.
− Product’s Data Sheet on Japanese-language site only available in English, and may not fully address local needs.

Conclusions
 
In sum, domestically developed apps are likely best suited to meet Japan’s specific bridge inspection needs, particularly in language support and integration with MLIT’s bridge inspection guidelines and terminologies.
 
A key edge given to JIW’s Waymark Note is the app’s potential integration with the company’s own drone-based bridge inspection solutions. JIW has been advancing innovations in Japan’s aging infrastructure inspections through collaboration with U.S.-based Skydio, Inc., whose AI-powered autonomous drones enable safe flights in complex environments, precise data capture, and scalable operations. According to Skydio in 2021, JIW’s inspection business grew 70-fold within 12 months of their partnership [3].
 
Additionally, JIW is working with Japanese developers such as Yachiyo Engineering Co., Ltd., using water drones to create 3D texture models of damage inside culverts [4]. Supported by MLIT’s Arakawa-Karyu River Office in Kanto, this promotion of Digital Transformation (DX) highlights the use of cutting-edge technologies in Japan’s infrastructure inspections.
 

Water drone entering culvert (left) and 3D texture model of the inside of culvert (right)
【Image Source: Japan Infra Waymark】
https://www.jiw.co.jp/newsroom/detail/20241106093304.html

To stay competitive with other infrastructure inspection software developers, JIW will need to consider how to integrate its Waymark Note app with its drone hardware-based systems.
 
The Waymark Note beta trial will run from January to March 2025 and will be available for testing on iPads (iOS 14 to 18) via Apple’s TestFlight app. Developer feedback will be collected during this phase, with the official release of Waymark Note tentatively scheduled for April 2025.
 
Notes:
 
[1] MLIT, "老朽化対策の取組み", (“Measures to Address Infrastructure Deterioration”), https://www.mlit.go.jp/road/sisaku/yobohozen/torikumi.pdf
 
[2] Ibid.
 
[3] Sydni Topper, "JIW grows bridge inspection business 70x by switching to Skydio", Skydio, May 20, 2021, https://www.skydio.com/blog/jiw-grows-bridge-inspection-business-70x-by-switching-to-skydio/
 
[4] JIW, "点検・作業時間の削減を目指し水上ドローンによる樋管函体内部点検の高度化を検証！", (Testing advanced internal inspection of culvert boxes using water drones to reduce inspection and work time!), 18 December, 2024, https://www.jiw.co.jp/newsroom/detail/20241106093304.html
 
Background Information:
 
https://www.jiw.co.jp/newsroom/detail/20250110103931.html
https://www.jiw.co.jp/service/technical/waymark_note/index.html#faq
https://www.jiw.co.jp/service/technical/waymark_note/
https://www.ihi.co.jp/sp-inspector/products/index.html
https://www.smcon.co.jp/service/maplet-sm/
https://www.ncsx.co.jp/mapletsm/
https://ja.bentley.com/software/assetwise-inspections/?_gl=1*ly7j5d*_gcl_au*OTI0NTY5MTguMTczNzA5OTc3Mg..*_ga*ODExMDQyNjkxLjE3MzcwOTk3NzI.*_ga_JNS8E8ELR8*MTczNzEwMTA4MS4yLjEuMTczNzEwMTI0NS4yOC4wLjA.*_ga_6RP3MTG93D*MTczNzA5OTc3Mi4xLjEuMTczNzEwMTIzNS4wLjAuMA
https://ja.bentley.com/wp-content/uploads/pds-assetwise-inspections-ltr-en-lr.pdf
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.awimobile.production.release

On January 14, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. (KHI) announced that, in collaboration with the Japan UAS Industry Development Association (JUIDA) [1], it had demonstrated the supply transport capabilities of its unmanned helicopter, the “K-RACER-X2,” to the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF). The demonstration was conducted as part of the JGSDF Middle Army’s “Nankai Rescue 2024” simulation field training exercise to prepare for a potential earthquake along the Nankai Trough, located off the Pacific coast of central to southwestern Japan.
 
KHI’s Demonstration of the “K-RACER-X2” for the JGSDF
 
In its January 14 press release, KHI explained that the K-RACER-X2 supply drone successfully demonstrated "unmanned resource transport" capabilities to the JGSDF, including fully autonomous loading and unloading of supplies. The operation was conducted without human intervention, utilizing a remote release system.
 

The K-RACER-X2 unmanned helicopter developed by KHI
【Image Source: Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd.】
https://www.khi.co.jp/groupvision2030/k-racer.html

 

KHI elaborated further that “K-RACER” [2] operations, such as takeoff and landing, can be performed using a tablet device or PC, and the drone can automatically fly along pre-set waypoints via GPS.
 

Conceptual illustration of K-RACER “mountain goods transportation/disaster prevention/disaster response” operations
【Image Source: Kawasaki Group】
https://youtu.be/Da19osDXQWM?t=45 & https://youtu.be/Da19osDXQWM?t=136  (Screenshots)

JGSDF Disaster Preparations and Demand for Unmanned Helicopters
 
KHI’s January 13 demonstration of the K-RACER-X2 was part of the "Nankai Rescue 2024” exercise, the largest ever disaster response training conducted by the Middle Army of the JGSDF. Held from January 13 to 17, the exercise aimed to enhance the JGSDF’s disaster response capabilities and share training outcomes with local governments and organizations. This collaborative effort seeks to strengthen overall disaster prevention measures within the Middle Army's area of responsibility.

Illustration of the JGSDF’s areas of responsibility, including that of the Middle or "Central Army" which includes the defense of Chūgoku, Kansai, Shikoku and the Southern half of the Chūbu region
【Image Source: Wikimedia Commons】
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/92/Japan_Ground_Self-Defense_Force_Locations.png

 

The Middle Army’s field training occurred just days after a 6.6 magnitude earthquake struck the Hyuganada Sea, off the coast of Miyazaki Prefecture, on Monday, January 12. On January 14, a Japanese government committee on earthquake research estimated the probability of a Nankai Trough megaquake occurring within the next 30 years to be approximately 80 percent, highlighting the importance of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology for both transport and surveillance in disaster zones.

Estimated area for the epicenter of a megaquake along the Nankai Trough
【Image Source: NHK】
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/backstories/3509/

K-RACER Tested for both Disaster Relief and Defense
 
KHI’s demonstration of its K-RACER-X2 for the JGSDF builds upon a prior test of the unmanned helicopter conducted by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) at the Yokosuka naval base in January and February 2024.
 
During the JMSDF test, the K-RACER X2 lowered approximately 30kg of supplies from a pier onto the deck of a JMSDF ship. This particular test involved a stationary vessel for safety purposes. However, the system is designed to eventually enable the unmanned helicopter’s delivery of supplies to moving ships [3].
 

JMSDF test of the K-RACER X2 at the Yokosuka Naval Base, conducted between January 22 and February 2, 2024
【Image Source: Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force】
https://x.com/JMSDF_PAO/status/1755786878983487775 (Screenshot)

Nevertheless, the “K-RACER” is primarily designed for operations in mountainous areas, including the transport of supplies to mountain huts and materials to construction and maintenance sites for power transmission towers. In disaster situations, the unmanned helicopter is intended to be utilized for various support activities, such as transporting relief supplies and materials for reconstruction.
 
KHI conducted the first test flight of the unmanned helicopter’s first prototype, the “K-RACER-X1,” in October 2020. This vehicle was described by the company as an "Unmanned Compound Helicopter" because it features wings and propellers on both sides of the fuselage instead of a tail rotor on the backside of the body.
 
The “K-RACER-X1” design contrasts with the more conventional helicopter appearance of the newer “K-RACER-X2” demonstrated to the JGSDF in this month’s Nankai earthquake exercise.
 

The K-RACER-X1 (left) and the K-Racer-X2 (right)
【Image Source: Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd.】
https://www.khi.co.jp/pressrelease/detail/20201006_1.html & https://global.kawasaki.com/en/groupvision2030/K-RACER.html

Both models are equipped with the same gasoline-powered “Ninja H2R” supercharged engine, originally developed by KHI for use in the company’s motorcycles. However, while the K-RACER-X1 has a maximum payload capacity of 100kg, its successor doubles this, reaching a capacity of 200kg.
 

K-RACER X2

Specifications Rotor Diameter: 7.0m Height: 2.0m Max. Payload: 200kg Drive System: Reciprocating Fuel Type: Premium Gasoline Maximum Speed: Approx.140km/h Range: 100km or more Endurance: 1 hour or more

K-RACER-X2 Basic Specifications
【Image Source: Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd.】
https://www.khi.co.jp/groupvision2030/k-racer.html

Domestic Unmanned Helicopter Options for JGSDF’s Disaster Preparation
 
Other domestic options for unmanned helicopters are available on the market for the JGSDF to consider in the case of a Nankai Trough earthquake.
 
One candidate is the “FAZER R G2,” developed by Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd., which, as reported by NSBT Japan, was tested in November 2024 by the Japan Coast Guard for use in the unmanned monitoring of volcanic hazards.
 

On December 27, the Cabinet of Japan approved a historic defense budget of 8.7 trillion yen (approximately 55 billion USD). On the same day, the Japan Ministry of Defense (JMOD) released its latest defense budget report for fiscal year 2025 [1], outlining a range of upcoming funding initiatives relevant to Japan’s defense industry—particularly in the aerospace sector, as the nation advances its development of a next-generation fighter.
 
The “GCAP” Next-Generation Fighter Aircraft & Associated Technology
 
The Japanese Ministry of Defense (JMOD) has allocated a total of 127.4 billion yen (approx. 806.5 million USD) to support the development of Japan’s next-generation stealth fighter. This advanced aircraft is being co-developed with the United Kingdom (UK) and Italy under the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), which was officially announced on 9 December 2022.
 
JMOD’s funding for FY 2025 also includes provisions for separate research into “combat-support” unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) designed to operate alongside GCAP’s next-generation fighter jet, as well as medium-range air-to-air missiles intended to be mounted on the aircraft.
 
The “GCAP” Next-Generation Fighter Aircraft & Japan’s Aviation Industry
 
To promote the development of the next-generation stealth fighter itself, JMOD has earmarked 108.7 billion yen (approx. 688 million USD). This amount will go toward co-developing the fighter aircraft with Italy and the UK and also be used for JMOD and the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) test preparations.
 

Schedule of GCAP and the parallel medium-range air-to-air missile to be mounted on the next-generation aircraft, scheduled for delivery in 2035 to replace the Japan Air Self-Defense Force’s F-2 fighter
【Image Source: Japan Ministry of Defense】
https://www.mod.go.jp/en/d_act/d_budget/pdf/20241126a.pdf

Co-development of the fighter jet includes joint design of the airframes and engines, as well as funding for the trilateral “GIGO” (GCAP International Government Organisation) [2]. GIGO will place contracts with the “business joint venture” established in December 2024 by the next-generation fighter jet’s lead system integrators: BAE Systems (UK), Leonardo (Italy), and “Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement Co. Ltd.” (JAIEC) [3].
 

Overall structure for GCAP’s joint development (translated and amended from the Japanese original)
【Image Source: Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA)】
https://www.mofa.go.jp/mofaj/files/100595072.pdf

 

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) and the Society of Japanese Aerospace Companies (SJAC) established JAIEC in July 2024 to lead Japan’s involvement in GCAP’s “business joint venture” and to facilitate participation of Japan’s aerospace industry as a whole.
 
Under the leadership of former Administrative Vice-Minister of Defense Kimito NAKAE, JAIEC’s stated mission is to enhance the Japanese aircraft industry’s supply chain as part of a unified, nationwide initiative through its involvement in the international development of the next-generation fighter.
 

JAIEC states on its company website that it aims to capitalize on the development of specialized aircraft, including international joint ventures for fighter aircraft, by fostering synergy between the defense and civilian sectors of Japan's aircraft industry. Its objectives include building a robust supply chain involving a diverse range of domestic companies and facilitating the smooth implementation of related projects.
 
According to JMOD, JAIEC is committed to sharing the expertise it gains during the GCAP with Japan's aerospace industry as a whole [4]. JMOD recognizes the critical role the aircraft industry plays in ensuring Japan’s security and contributing to its socio-economic prosperity. The ministry emphasizes the importance of enhancing collaboration between the civil and defense sectors of the industry and encouraging greater participation of suppliers on the defense side.
 
JMOD sees JAIEC’s involvement in GCAP as a key opportunity to strengthen the aviation industry’s supply chain and share valuable insights gained through international cooperation. This includes expertise in certifications, digital transformation, and intellectual property management. Efforts will also focus on leveraging technological capabilities to accelerate competitive equipment proposals and enhance supplier participation to support aircraft development in both civil and defense sectors.
 
Beyond the JAIEC-led “business joint venture”, three additional multinational industrial constructs are anticipated to support the fighter jet program’s specific subsystems, with leadership provided by key integrators [5]:
 
1) Sensors and Communications
    Leadership: Leonardo UK, Leonardo Italy, and Mitsubishi Electric
2) Engines and Propulsion Systems
    Leadership: Rolls-Royce, Avio Aero, and IHI
3) Future Weapon Systems
    Leadership: MBDA UK, MBDA Italy, and Mitsubishi Electric
 
Like the JAIEC-led joint venture serving as the lead systems integrator, subsystems will equally rely on the participation of a multitude of subcontractors of all sizes within the supply chain in order to support GCAP and realize the next-generation fighter jet.
 
“Combat-Support” UAVs for GCAP’s Manned Next-Generation Fighter
 
In its budget for fiscal year 2025, JMOD also confirmed an allocation of 12.8 billion yen (approximately 81 million USD) for research into technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), necessary for the UAVs capable of collaborating with GCAP’s manned next-generation fighter.
 
JMOD initially announced plans in December 2022 to develop such “combat support unmanned aircraft.” By December 2023, JMOD and the U.S. Department of Defense reached an agreement to collaborate on joint research into AI technologies for these UAVs [6], designed to operate alongside Japan’s next-generation fighter as a "loyal wingman" or "Collaborative Combat Aircraft” (CCA).
 

Conceptual image from JMOD’s 2022 Annual White Paper of Japan’s next-generation fighter and UAVs sharing real-time information in order to deal with an aircraft threat
【Image Source: Japan Ministry of Defense】
https://www.mod.go.jp/j/press/wp/wp2022/html/nt310000.html

As reported by NSBT Japan last month, Japan’s Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA) has also recently signed a contract with Boeing Japan worth 155,177,000 yen (approx. 1 million USD) for simulation tests related to the prospective UAV.
 
Boeing’s own MQ-28 “Ghost Bat,” currently under development for the Royal Australian Air Force, is a potential CCA option for Japan’s next-generation fighter jet.
 
At the same time, Japan’s own MHI is also developing two distinct CCA concepts for the GCAP next-generation fighter: one is a tactical combat UAV, while the other is designed to support manned aircraft in combat operations [7].
 
Depending on the choices made by JMOD and ATLA, options will emerge for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to act as subcontractors within these potential UAV procurement programs.
 
Conclusion
 
As outlined in JMOD’s latest defense budget, updated in December 2027, and supported by recent developments, numerous business opportunities are expected to emerge in fiscal 2025 for SMEs in Japan’s aerospace industry to contribute to the defense sector.
 
Notably, there will be a significant demand for subcontractors to support GCAP’s lead integrator joint venture, led by JAIEC in collaboration with the UK’s BAE Systems and Italy’s Leonardo. This need will extend to the industrial infrastructure required to develop the next-generation fighter’s subsystems, as well as the collaborative combat UAV program.
 
JMOD’s updated defense budget, released on December 27, forms part of Japan’s historic total national budget of 115.54 trillion yen (approximately 732 billion USD) for fiscal 2025, which begins this April.
 
※1 USD = 158 JPY
 
Notes:
 
[1] Japan Ministry of Defense, “防衛力抜本的強化の進捗と予算－令和７年度予算案の概要－（令和6年12月27日掲載）”, (Progress and Budget in Fundamental Reinforcement of Defense Capabilities - Overview of FY2025 Budget Request (Published December 27, 2024)), https://www.mod.go.jp/j/budget/yosan_gaiyo/fy2025/yosan_20241227.pdf
 
[2] GIGO (GCAP International Government Organisation): Agreed to by the Defense Ministers of Japan, the UK and Italy in December 2023, GIGO is to be the centralizing body through which the three governments will be able to exert direction over the GCAP with an additional aim being to enhance each of their countries’ defense industrial bases. The treaty ratifying the intergovernmental organization’s establishment came in to force a year later on December 10, 2024. GIGO is scheduled to be headquartered in Reading, UK, and its first Chief Executive is to be former Japanese Vice Minister of Defense for International Affairs Masami OKA.   https://www.mofa.go.jp/press/release/pressite_000001_00805.html ; https://www.mod.go.jp/en/article/2023/12/8cca4af1a6d679e53ab110da3e338b877f7faefd.html ; https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2024/11/20/japan/gcap-fighter-jets/   
 
[3] Business Joint Venture for the Next-Generation Fighter’s Lead System Integrators: On December 13, 2024, BAE Systems (UK), Leonardo (Italy), and JAIEC announced the joint venture to design, develop, and deliver the next-generation fighter. Each company holds a 33.3% share in the new venture that will serve as GCAP’s lead systems integrator. Based in the UK near GIGO's headquarters, the venture will also operate with joint teams in each partner nation. https://www.jaiec.com/news/global-combat-air-programme-industry-partners-reach-landmark-agreement-to-deliver-next-generation-combat-aircraft/ ; https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2024/11/20/japan/gcap-fighter-jets/  
 
[4] Japan Ministry of Defense, “わが国の防衛産業と装備移転”, (Transfer of Defense Equipment and Japan’s Defense Industrial Base), October 2024 https://www.mod.go.jp/j/policy/agenda/meeting/drastic-reinforcement/pdf/siryo03_02.pdf
 
[5] Gabriel Dominguez, “Japan, U.K. and Italy discuss inviting more countries to joint fighter project”, The Japan Times, November 20, 2024 https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2024/11/20/japan/gcap-fighter-jets/  
 
[6] U.S. Air Force, “Japan MoD, US DoD sign joint agreement for AI, UAS research”, December 22, 2023. https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/3624158/japan-mod-us-dod-sign-joint-agreement-for-ai-uas-research/
 
[7] Akhil Kadidal, “’Loyal Wingman’ concepts in Japan, Britain for GCAP support taking shape”, Janes, December 06, 2024. https://www.janes.com/osint-insights/defence-news/defence/loyal-wingman-concepts-in-japan-britain-for-gcap-support-taking-shape
 
Background Information:
 
https://japan.kantei.go.jp/103/statement/202412/1227kaiken.html
https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15568068 https://www.mod.go.jp/j/budget/yosan_gaiyo/fy2025/yosan_20241227.pdf
https://www.mod.go.jp/en/d_act/d_budget/pdf/20241126a.pdf  
https://www.jaiec.com/news/global-combat-air-programme-industry-partners-reach-landmark-agreement-to-deliver-next-generation-combat-aircraft/
https://www.jaiec.com/
https://www.mhi.com/news/240710.html
https://www.mod.go.jp/j/policy/agenda/meeting/drastic-reinforcement/pdf/siryo03_02.pdf

On December 26, Space Entertainment Laboratory, Inc., a Japanese small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) specializing in the development of fixed-wing drones for maritime operations, announced its participation in the “Vietnam International Defence Expo 2024,” held from December 19 to 21. The Fukushima-based company showcased its “seaplane-type” unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), the “HAMADORI,” as part of a Japan pavilion hosted by the Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA).
 
Prior to December’s exposition held in Hanoi, ATLA had revealed that a variety of Japanese companies would be exhibiting. The announced lineup included a diverse range of SMEs. Alongside Space Entertainment Laboratory was Mitsufuji Corporation (displaying electromagnetic wave shielding products), and Hytec Inter Co., Ltd. (showcasing tactical video encoders and decoders), among others.
 
Space Entertainment Laboratory had previously displayed the “HAMADORI” in October 2024 at Fukushima’s Robot Festa attended by NSBT Japan. This flying boat-type UAV features automatic sea-based takeoff and landing capabilities, along with technology for ocean data collection. According to the company, HAMADORI’s features make the drone well-suited for a range of defense and civilian applications.
 

The “HAMADORI 3000” on display at ‘Robot Festa 2024’, Fukushima Robot Test Field, October 4, 2024  
【Image Source: NSBT Japan Media Team】

 

HAMADORI’s applications include maritime security operations—such as intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance—detection of illegal fishing activities in exclusive economic zones (EEZs), search and rescue missions, and underwater monitoring.
 
Space Entertainment Laboratory currently offers two models of the HAMADORI.

The smaller "HAMADORI 3000" is designed to be launched from small boats and can take off and land in waves of up to 2 meters. Powered by batteries, it is equipped with an electro-optical/infrared camera, enabling it to capture images both day and night.
 
The larger "HAMADORI 6000" can handle waves up to 3 meters for takeoff and landing. It features a gasoline-powered twin-engine, satellite communications (SATCOM), and can carry a variety of payloads, such as gyro and sonar sensors.
 

HAMADORI 3000 EO/IR Gimbal Camera Li-ion Battery Powered Loadable onto Small Vessels	Wingspan: 3,100mm Length: 1,960mm T/O Weight: 19kg Endurance: 120min Cruise Speed: 35knots Wave Height: 2m- Power: Li-ion Battery Comms: Line of Sight (LOS)
HAMADORI 6000 SATCOM Twin-Engine Powered Large Payload 800km-Range	Wingspan: 6,000mm Length: 4,000mm T/O Weight: 100kg Payload: 10kg-- Endurance: 480min Cruise Speed: 60knots Range: 740km Wave Height: 3m- Power: Twin-engine Comms: SATCOM/LOS

A third model is also now in development. Dubbed the “HAMADORI Concept”, this model is expected to have a longer range of 920km and modular payload of 300kg.
 

HAMADORI Concept SATCOM Turboprop Powered Large Modular Payload 900km-Range

Wingspan: 14,000mm Length: 8,000m T/O Weight: 1,000kg Payload; 300kg- Range: 920km Wave height: 3m- Power: Turboprop Comms: SATCOM/LOS

Specifications for the HAMADORI Concept
【Source: Space Entertainment Laboratory, Inc.】
https://en.selab.jp/products

Space Entertainment Laboratory developed its flying boat-type UAV with Japan’s geography in mind. Designed for use in archipelago regions with limited flat land for take-off, the Fukushima-based SME has been actively seeking introduction of the HAMADORI into Japan’s domestic civil and defense markets.
 
In the civil sector, Space Entertainment Laboratory collaborated with Yokosuka City and the Nagai Town Fisheries Cooperative in 2022 in order to demonstrate the HAMADORI 3000’s ability to support Japan’s fishing industry. This test, conducted in Kanagawa Prefecture, aimed to demonstrate the UAV's ability to detect schools of fish in order to improve the efficiency of fishing and reduce fuel costs.

The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) has conducted its first test firing of a Tomahawk land-attack sea-launched cruise missile, taking a major step towards introducing the weapons system into operational service. The RAN is set to become the third navy to operate Tomahawk, following the US Navy and UK Royal (RN).
 
The test firing was conducted by HMAS Brisbane, the RAN’s second-in-class Hobart guided-missile destroyer (DDG), during a test and evaluation activity while the ship has been deployed off the US west coast.
 
Delivery of a Tomahawk capability is the next step in the navy’s development of enhanced lethality, within a wider Australian Defence Force strategic requirement to augment long-range strike capability to bolster regional deterrence at operational and strategic levels. Other naval steps taken include firing Kongsberg Naval Strike Missile (NSM) and Raytheon Standard Missile 6 (SM-6) weapons earlier in 2024, re-aligning the navy’s surface force structure under the 2023 Defence Strategic Review (DSR), and building a nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) capability through the AUKUS (Australia/UK/US) strategic partnership.
 
Tomahawk – also known as TLAM (Tomahawk land attack missile), and manufactured by US defence company RTX’s Raytheon business – delivers state-of-the-art land attack missile capability. Launched from surface ships, submarines, and ground-based launchers, its unique selling point is its 1,000-mile range. Two versions are in service: the Block IV Tactical Tomahawk (TacTom); and the Block V, which itself has three variants, namely an improved TacTom (V), maritime strike (Va), and multi-effects (Vb) warheads.
 
Australia is set to acquire more than 200 Tomahawks, to be fitted across its Hobart-class DDG fleet, its future SSN fleet, and – subject to feasibility studies – its incoming Hunter-class frigates.
 
Australia’s defence minister Richard Marles said “By enhancing our own defence capabilities, and by working with partners, we change the calculus for any potential aggressor so that no state will ever conclude the benefits of conflict outweigh the risks.” The minister added that the successful Tomahawk test firing demonstrated the strength of Australia’s alliance and defence co-operation with the United States.
 
As security challenges increase globally and as conflicts like the Russo-Ukraine war point to the increased use of massed but precise strike capabilities, more navies are now looking seriously at systems like Tomahawk or at developing indigenous capability. The Royal Netherlands Navy (RNLN) and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) are set to be the next two navies to step up as Tomahawk shooters.
 
by Dr. Lee Willett, London
  This article was originally posted on the Asian Military Review which is the largest circulated defence magazine in Asia-Pacific region. The publication is the journal of choice for thousands of professionals within the Asia-Pacific defence community and beyond. NSBT Japan began exchanging articles with the Asian Military Review in April 2024.
 
Read the original article here.
 

On December 27, the Japan Ministry of Defense (JMOD) announced a comprehensive agreement with the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and the Information-technology Promotion Agency, Japan (IPA) [1] to enhance cooperation in cybersecurity. The three parties aim to strengthen Japan's cyber situational awareness and response capabilities, including those of the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF).
 
Titled the “Agreement on Comprehensive Cooperation on Cyber Incident Response and the Sharing of Cyber Threat Information, etc.”, the new arrangement focuses on leveraging the technical expertise of all three parties. It seeks to improve preventive and mitigation measures against cyber incidents that could impact JMOD, JSDF, critical infrastructure, and the defense industry.
 
Under the agreement, JMOD, METI and IPA will implement the following three initiatives:

1) Support for industry through participation of the JSDF in IPA’s initiatives:
●JSDF dispatch of instructors to IPA-conducted training sessions aimed at enhancing industry’s cyber response capabilities.
●JSDF participation in the hunt-forward and targeted cyberattack-related operations of the IPA’s “Cyber Rescue and Advice Team against targeted attack of Japan” (J-CRAT) [2].
●JSDF participation in IPA-led safety and reliability verification projects for industrial control systems, including risk assessments for critical infrastructure operators.
●Promote integrated and comprehensive use of each party’s systems to provide cyber security support such as diagnosis, risk analysis, and cause investigation. 

2) Strengthen cooperation with the defense industry through the enhancement of information-sharing:
●IPA cooperation with cybersecurity awareness seminars conducted by the Japan Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA) to support the development of security systems in the defense industry.
●Promote METI’s support measures for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the defense industry’s supply chains, alongside IPA’s risk assessment for industrial control systems.
●Share information related to cyber incidents, including attack methods, system vulnerabilities, and technology trends, while raising awareness about the threat of such incidents with Japan’s Cyber Defense Cooperation Council (CDC) [3].  

3) Establishment of the “Cyber Cooperation Forum” as a consultative framework:
●Ensure regular consultations between representatives from all three parties to ensure effective coordination of projects. When necessary, consultations will also include those departments from each party responsible for cyber cases. 

This latest agreement builds upon numerous initiatives launched by the JMOD to enhance the cyber resilience of the JSDF and Japan’s defense industrial base. Key efforts include the creation of the Cyber Defense Center (CDC) in 2013 to improve information-sharing between the defense ministry and the private sector, the establishment of the Cyber Defense Group in 2014 under the JSDF’s C4 (Command, Control, Communications, and Computers) Systems Command, and the formation of the Cyber Defense Policy Working Group (CDPWG) in 2014 in collaboration with the United States.
 
In fiscal 2025, which begins this April, JMOD plans to implement a range of additional cybersecurity measures for the defense industry. These measures include conducting a system security survey and promoting compliance among defense contractors and their suppliers with JMOD’s standards on cybersecurity measures for defense industry.
 
 Notes:
 
[1] Information-technology Promotion Agency, Japan (IPA): Established in January 2004 as an Incorporated Administrative Agency operating under the aegis of METI, IPA is tasked with supporting Japan’s national IT strategy, including information security in the cyber space and the promotion of software development. https://www.kantei.go.jp/jp/singi/gskaigi/kaikaku/wg2/dai5/siryou1-3-1.pdf
 
[2] Cyber Rescue and Advice Team against targeted attack of Japan (J-CRAT): Established in July 2014 by IPA in cooperation with METI, this initiative aims to protect critical industries and societal infrastructure from targeted cyberattacks by state-sponsored groups. The team supports affected organizations to promptly analyze damage and implementing countermeasures to mitigate or prevent further harm. https://www.ipa.go.jp/security/j-crat/about.html & https://www.ipa.go.jp/en/about/activities/jcsip-jcrat.html
 
[3] The Cyber Defense Cooperation Council (CDC): Established in July 2013 to enhance collaboration between the Ministry of Defense (MOD), the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF), and the defense industry in addressing cyber threats. The council comprises approximately ten defense industry companies with a strong interest in cybersecurity. Through CDC joint exercises and initiatives, the MOD/JSDF and the defense industry aim to work together to counter cyberattacks. https://www.mod.go.jp/en/jdf/no126/topics.html & https://www.mod.go.jp/j/approach/defense/cyber/pdf/cyber_defense_council.pdf  
 
Background Information:
 
https://www.mod.go.jp/j/press/news/2024/12/27b.html
https://www.mod.go.jp/j/press/news/2024/12/27b_01.pdf
https://www.mod.go.jp/j/press/news/2024/12/27b_02.pdf
https://www.ipa.go.jp/security/renkei/rk20241227.html
https://www.ipa.go.jp/security/renkei/sbn8o10000003xg0-att/kyoutei_gaiyou_20241227.pdf
https://www.mod.go.jp/en/jdf/no126/topics.html
https://www.mod.go.jp/en/publ/answers/cyber/index.html
https://www.mod.go.jp/en/d_act/d_budget/pdf/20241126a.pdf

The Japanese Ministry of Defense (MoD) announced on 6 December that it had conducted a series of ground- and ship-based test firings of an improved version of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF)’s Type 12 surface-to-ship guided missile.
 
The MoD said in its statement that it had completed five test firings between 4 October and 1 November 2024, with three of these involving ground-based mobile launchers at the Aeronautical Equipment Research Institute on Niijima Island and the remaining two centering on ship-launched versions of the missile.
 
“In order to quickly build a stand-off defense capability that can prevent and eliminate invading forces against our country at an early stage and at a long distance,” said the MoD’s Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA). “We will continue to work on the early construction of stand-off defence capabilities.”
 
Developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), the Type 12 SSM was originally developed from the country’s Type 88 anti-ship missile and fielded by the JGSDF coastal battalions from around 2014. The system is based on the Mitsubishi 8×8 transporter-erector-launcher (TEL) vehicle with a six-cell launcher.
 
Each Type 12 missile has an overall length of 5 m and weighs 700 kg. It is armed with a 225 kg high-explosive warhead and uses an inertial navigation system (INS) and active radar seeker.
 
The MoD earlier revealed fresh insights into the Type 12 SSM upgrade in its latest annual defence white paper released on 12 July.
 
An image of a missile prototype, purportedly used for ground-based static testing, was included in the document. The missile appears similar in overall shape and form with the low-observable US-made AGM-158 Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM) and the Franco-British Storm Shadow/SCALP EG, albeit with a more prominent air intake on the underside of the fuselage in its current form.
 
The current Type 12 SSM possesses a range of around 200 km. It is understood that the MoD hopes to achieve a range of around 900-1000 km for the upgraded missile, with the eventual aim of extending the range to around 1200 km.
 
The MoD earlier announced in December 2023 that the JGSDF will deploy the upgraded Type 12 SSM from fiscal year 2025, a year earlier than originally planned.
 
by Jr Ng
  This article was originally posted on the Asian Military Review which is the largest circulated defence magazine in Asia-Pacific region. The publication is the journal of choice for thousands of professionals within the Asia-Pacific defence community and beyond. NSBT Japan began exchanging articles with the Asian Military Review in April 2024.
 
Read the original article here.
 

On December 25, Tokyo Keiki Co., Ltd. announced the inauguration of its "Defense Management Facility" (防衛管理棟) at the company’s Nasu Plant in Nasu-shi, Tochigi Prefecture. The Japanese precision instrument manufacturer stated that the new building, built to meet increasing demand for defense-related equipment, will play a critical role in managing the development of its products as Japan’s defense budget continues to expand.
 
For many years, Tokyo Keiki has produced on-board equipment, such as radar warning devices and gyro sensors, for the aircraft, ships and submarines operated by the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) at the company’s Nasu Plant. Tokyo Keiki highlighted the need for the new facility due to a record-high order backlog and expectations of sustained demand, driven by the recent growth in Japan’s defense budgets.
 
Tokyo Keiki has invested approximately 1.5 billion yen (approx. 9.5 million USD) in the new "Defense Management Facility," which spans a floor area of 5,580 m². The building is designed to support the development and production of new products while accommodating the Nasu Plant's current defense equipment manufacturing operations.
 
Beyond defense, the Nasu Plant is also responsible for developing and manufacturing equipment for marine traffic (e.g. high-resolution radars), communication & control systems (e.g. directional antenna systems), as well as gyro sensor-applied devices (vibratory rate gyros, servo accelerometers).
 

Tokyo Keiki’s “VSAS-4GM” Gyro Sensor (left) for advanced motion measurements and Ring Laser Gyro (right) for supporting submarine navigation
【Tochigi Prefecture Department of Industry, Labor and Tourism Industrial Policy Section, Industrial Policy Group】
https://www.pref.tochigi.lg.jp/kogyo/english/voice/025.html
 

Tokyo Keiki now plans to consolidate its defense business management and procurement departments within the new building, which features high insulation specifications to enhance efficiency in air conditioning and power consumption.
 
With the “Defense Management Facility” now operational, the company aims to establish a rapid and efficient production system while securing skilled human resources that will contribute to the strengthening of Japan’s defense capabilities.
 
Headquartered in Ota-ku, Tokyo, Tokyo Keiki Co., Ltd. is a leading manufacturer of advanced measurement, cognition, and control devices. Its expertise spans the defense and communication instrument sectors, as well as railway maintenance, marine technology, hydraulics and pneumatics, and fluid measurement equipment systems.
 
※1 USD = 158 JPY
 
Background Information:
 
https://www.tokyokeiki.jp/topics/?itemid=745 https://www.pref.tochigi.lg.jp/kogyo/english/voice/025.html
https://www.tokyokeiki.jp/e/5minutes/
https://www.tokyokeiki.jp/recruit/company/business/boei.html
https://www.tokyokeiki.jp/e/products/detail.html?pdid=336

On December 12, the Maritime Staff Office of the Japan Ministry of Defense (JMOD) announced plans to procure aircraft maintenance services starting in fiscal year 2027 and beyond. These plans involve adopting long-term Performance-Based Logistics (PBL) contracts [1] focused on maintenance and repair performance, aiming to enhance equipment availability and reduce long-term acquisition costs.
 
The Maritime Staff Office issued a Request For Information (RFI) from companies interested in performing maintenance through a PBL contract on three types of aircraft currently in service with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF):
 
1) MCH/CH-101: Helicopter derived from the EH101 utility helicopter, originally developed and manufactured by EH Industries Limited (now Leonardo UK Ltd,). The MCH-101 features a Japanese-developed minesweeping mission system, while the CH-101 is currently used for transport missions in Antarctic exploration. The JMSDF currently operates four MCH-101 helicopters and four CH-101 helicopters.
 

CH-101 (left) and MCH-101 (right)
【Image Source: Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force】
https://www.mod.go.jp/msdf/equipment/rotorcraft/utility/ch-101/ & https://www.mod.go.jp/msdf/equipment/rotorcraft/ms-t/mch-101/

2) C-130R: Turboprop military transport aircraft featuring four Allison T56-A-16 engines. Based on the Lockheed Martin KC-130R tanker aircraft used by the United States Marine Corps but redesigned and stripped of refueling equipment. The JMSDF has been operating six of these C-130Rs since 2014.
 

C-130R military transport aircraft of the JMSDF
【Image Source: Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force】
https://www.mod.go.jp/msdf/equipment/aircraft/transport/c-130r/

3) TC/LC-90: Twin-turboprop aircraft modeled on the Beechcraft King Air, a civil utility aircraft first produced in 1964 by American company Beechcraft. The JMSDF operates five TC-90s for instrument flight training. Meanwhile, five LC-90s are used for transport of personnel, supplies and for communications [2].
 

LC-90 (left) and TC-90 (right)
【Image Source: Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force】
https://www.mod.go.jp/msdf/equipment/aircraft/liaison/lc-90/ & https://www.mod.go.jp/msdf/equipment/aircraft/trainer/tc-90/

Performance-Based Logistics guidelines were first established by JMOD in 2011. Since then, the ministry has been actively working to implement these long-term contracts, driven by evaluations highlighting the "positive outcomes" achieved when applied to the maintenance and servicing of equipment in Western countries.
 
PBL is a defense acquisition strategy particularly favored by the United States Department of Defense (DoD) in order to meet defense requirements while incentivizing product support providers to innovate and reduce costs long-term.
 
The primary objectives of PBL are to optimize customer support, enhance weapon system availability, and lower acquisition and ownership costs. In the U.S., the DoD implements a 12-Step “Product Support Strategy Process” designed to ensure cohesive product support packages with appropriate incentives and metrics. 
 

The U.S. DoD’s 12-Step Product Support Strategy Process Model for PBL
【Image Source: Defense Acquisition University (DAU), United States Department of Defense】
https://www.dau.edu/acquipedia-article/performance-based-logistics-pbl-implementation

Similar to the U.S. DoD, JMOD has emphasized the benefits of long-term PBL contracts. Japan’s PBL contracts focus on achieving service outcomes, such as shorter repair times and enhanced inventory availability, rather than relying on traditional case-by-case contracting approaches.
 
In fiscal 2017, JMOD began plans to adopt a long-term PBL contract for the C-130R aircraft. This initiative aimed to enhance operational availability and ensure a stable supply of parts over six fiscal years, projecting savings of approximately 2.4 billion yen (16.5%). In February 2021, JMOD included in its PBL strategy both the MCH/CH-101 helicopters and TC/LC-90 fixed-propeller aircraft, targeting full implementation starting fiscal 2023.
 
Currently, Japan's Maritime Staff Office is once again inviting qualified companies with expertise in the repair, replenishment, maintenance, and technical support of these three aircraft, their engines, and associated equipment to submit applications to JMOD by January 29, 2025, 15:00 (Japan Standard Time).
 
Notes:
 
[1] Performance Based Logistics (PBL): A “contract method that involves payment of compensation according to the level of equipment performance achieved in terms of availability ratio and stable stock”. https://www.mod.go.jp/en/publ/w_paper/wp2020/pdf/R02040203.pdf
 
[2] In August 2024, Japan’s Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA) also opened calls for private companies to provide information on potential next-generation successors to the TC-90 and LC-90, as well as instruments and ground training systems. https://nsbt-japan.com/u/admin01/j1ti2fnes5hpvk?sf_culture=en  
 
Background Information:
 
https://www.mod.go.jp/msdf/supply/tech/20241212.pdf
https://global.kawasaki.com/en/mobility/air/helicopters/mch_101.html
https://www.seaforces.org/marint/Japan-Maritime-Self-Defense-Force/AIRCRAFT/Lockheed-C-130R.htm
https://dl.ndl.go.jp/pid/11341913 https://www.mod.go.jp/atla/soubiseisaku/soubiseisakukeiyakuseido/pbl_guideline_h30.pdf
https://www.dau.edu/acquipedia-article/performance-based-logistics-pbl-implementation　
https://www.mod.go.jp/en/d_act/d_budget/pdf/290328.pdf
https://www.mod.go.jp/msdf/supply/tech/210208.pdf  

About Wilcox
 
Wilcox Industries, established in 1982 in Newington, New Hampshire, designs and manufactures advanced tactical equipment for the military and law enforcement agencies. Its main products include “NVG Mounting Systems,” “Laser Systems,” and “Life Support Systems”. The company’s equipment designed for special operations and emergency response, such as night vision goggle mounts and laser aiming devices, are particularly well regarded.
 
Wilcox is committed to product development that incorporates cutting-edge technology. The company has laid out a framework that allows it to provide high-quality customizable products that meet the needs of end users. Wilcox supplies the highest performance equipment to militaries and law enforcement agencies in over 26 countries worldwide.

Equipment on Display at AUSA 2024

Raid Xe:
 
Wilcox continues to innovate in the field of optical devices and laser aiming devices, and in 2023 the company announced the launch of its newest laser aiming device, the “RAID Xe”. This device is designed to meet the needs of combatants who require flexibility to accurately capture targets while moving, from Close-Quarters Battle (CQB) to long-range shooting.
 
The “RAID Xe” not only emits infrared lasers to pinpoint targets but is also able to search a wide area using an infrared illuminator. Moreover, it is equipped with a wide-angle LED light for CQB, allowing operators to check corridors and rooms to ensure safety.
 
The optical bench of this device is equipped with an integrated visible laser (VIS), near-infrared laser (NIR), and NIR illuminator. Therefore, windage (left and right) and elevation (up and down) can be adjusted for the entire bench at once, and there is no need to adjust each laser or illuminator individually.
 

RAID Xe” (circle red) is particularly effective in Close-Quarters Battle (CQB)
【Image Source: NSBT Japan Media Team】