Japan plans to introduce Ukrainian drones to advance military cooperation with the U.S. military.

The Japanese Senate began reviewing Japan's budget proposal for the fiscal year 2026 on the 16th, during which the defense budget surpassed 9 trillion yen for the first time, setting a historical record.

It is reported that the Japanese government has started exploring the introduction of drones manufactured in Ukraine for the Self-Defense Forces to strengthen its defense system; at the same time, it is also considering expanding classified information sharing with the U.S. military and promoting joint missile production.

Japanese Ministry of Defense officials hope to gain experience from Ukrainian drones

According to reports, Japan will make a final decision on whether to introduce Ukrainian-made attack drones after comparing their performance with drone products from other countries. Officials from Japan's Ministry of Defense stated that Ukrainian drones excel in anti-jamming capabilities and endurance, and they are "continuously improved through real combat," while Japan lacks relevant knowledge and experience. Therefore, they hope to acquire related knowledge with the aim of achieving domestic production of drones in the future. It is reported that the Ukrainian side has inquired about Japan's intentions.

Informed sources: Japan and the U.S. plan to expand classified information sharing and co-produce missiles

According to informed sources, to enhance the deterrence and response capabilities of the Japanese Self-Defense Forces and the U.S. military, the two countries plan to expand the scope of classified information sharing. To strengthen the information protection capabilities of the Self-Defense Forces, Japan is considering introducing the highly confidential U.S. "secure cloud" system and plans to discuss this matter at the Japan-U.S. summit meeting on the 19th. Meanwhile, Japan and the U.S. intend to utilize the "Japan-U.S. defense industry cooperation, procurement, and maintenance regular consultation" mechanism to jointly work on increasing missile production, with the ground-to-air interceptor missile "Patriot 3" being listed as a major option.

Japan's arms expansion and enhanced cooperation with the U.S. threaten regional peace

The Japanese government under Prime Minister Kishi is continuously expanding its military capabilities and increasing defense spending; on the other hand, it is also frequently engaging in private actions with the United States. There are concerns within Japan that this series of actions will pose a significant risk to regional peace.

Japanese Senator Yoshiko Kira: Right now, the Kishi government is trying to push a path that could lead the country to war.

Masashi Aida, head of the Tokyo Peace Committee: The peace constitution is Japan's valuable asset, yet the Kishi administration is trying to loosen the restrictions on the Self-Defense Forces and push for constitutional amendments. This is very frightening.