Germany Recruits Japan to Participate in the "European Drone" Project

Reference News Network, June 22 According to the German website "Japan News" on June 15, Germany is seeking to involve Japan in the "European Drone" (as shown in the picture) project, viewing it as an important step to expand cooperation between the two countries in the field of security. Peter La Sigmond, the German ambassador to Japan, stated in an interview in Tokyo that Germany has consulted with Japanese partners about the possibility of joining the project.

Japan currently plays an observer role in the project. The project is being implemented by Germany, France, Italy, and Spain. The "European Drone" is being developed under the leadership of Airbus and is designed as a large reconnaissance drone, which will eventually replace the outdated systems of European countries' armed forces.

Sigmond stated that the Japanese side has shown interest in participating in the project. She said that strengthening cooperation helps to coordinate resources, shorten development time, and optimize the coordination between military systems.

In addition to the "European Drone" project, Sigmond also discussed other military projects in Europe. After Germany and France terminated their joint development of the next-generation fighter jet, the German government stated that it is exploring various alternative options. Sigmond mentioned that cooperation with Japan is also being considered.

The report noted that in recent years, Germany and Japan have significantly strengthened their cooperation in the field of security policy.

Sigmond also emphasized economic issues during the interview.

Germany and Japan have already begun cooperation in several areas related to economic security, including supply chains, semiconductors, critical raw materials, and civilian and military technologies.

According to the June 20 report by the "Nihon Keizai Shimbun," Germany's largest defense company, Rheinmetall, is planning to establish its first military production base in Japan. The company's CEO, Armin Papperger, stated in an interview with the "Nihon Keizai Shimbun": "I will visit Japan soon and discuss with relevant personnel."

It is reported that Rheinmetall is considering forming a joint venture with Japanese companies.

Rheinmetall is a comprehensive defense giant, with products including shells, missiles, and core components of the main battle tank "Leopard"-2 from various European countries. As European countries increase their defense budgets, the company's business scale is rapidly expanding.

Papperger made the above remarks while recording the live program "Core Dialogue in Europe" for the Nikkei electronic version. While explaining Europe's deterrent capabilities, he revealed his vision for business in Japan.

Currently, Rheinmetall has a subsidiary production base in Odawara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, responsible for automotive electric pumps and other businesses, but has not yet established a defense base in Japan. The company plans to engage in the production and research and development of defense equipment through joint ventures with Japanese companies in the future and is considering exports from Japan. (Translation/ Wang Qing, Chen Rui)