Drone Rivalry Intensifies Between US Ally and China
Summary
Japan is planning to test drones to replace fighter jets when responding to Chinese military drones near its airspace. Recently, Japan's defense ministry reported increased activity of Chinese drones in the region, leading to concerns over airspace security. Japan aims to use American-made MQ-9B drones for these missions, although they are not equipped for certain defense measures.Key Facts
- Japan wants to use drones instead of fighter jets to address Chinese drone activity near its airspace.
- The Japanese Defense Ministry confirmed plans to test American-made MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones for these missions.
- In fiscal year 2023, Japan intercepted 9 Chinese drones, which increased to 30 the following year.
- The current fiscal year has already seen 16 Chinese drones near Japan as of the end of August 2025.
- Japan's Defense Ministry allocated 1.1 billion yen (about $7.4 million) for testing drones starting in fiscal year 2026.
- The MQ-9B drones can fly for over 30 hours, but they are not equipped with flares or missiles for airspace defense.
- Japan's defense paper in 2025 points out China's growing military activities in the East China Sea.
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