Japan's Ambition to Build Unmanned Combat Forces

According to a report by Reference News Network on April 3, the Liberal Democratic Party held a security investigation meeting on March 30, where discussions were held regarding the modification of the "Three Security Documents" and the future form of the Self-Defense Forces.

The Ministry of Defense stated at the meeting that it will thoroughly implement unmanned and automated systems within the Self-Defense Forces, aiming to create "the world's most proficient organization in utilizing unmanned equipment."

The flexible use of drones will also help address the issue of personnel shortages in the Self-Defense Forces. The Ministry of Defense revealed at the meeting that the number of recruits is currently decreasing, and the number of mid-career resignations is increasing.

The Ministry of Defense reported that it will maintain the current scale as much as possible by strengthening recruitment and curbing mid-career resignations.

The Ground, Maritime, and Air Self-Defense Forces have each proposed guidelines for the use of drones. The Ground Self-Defense Force plans to establish and expand "unmanned units" and "manpower-saving units."

According to a report by the Yomiuri Shimbun on April 1, the Japanese government and ruling party have begun discussions on introducing drones with long-range attack capabilities for the Self-Defense Forces.

The plan aims to combine drones with long-range stand-off missiles to enhance the effectiveness of counterattack capabilities.

The government plans to include this content in the "Defense Force Development Plan" and other "Three Security Documents" that are to be revised within the year.

Several government and ruling party officials have disclosed this information. The concept draws lessons from the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict, preparing for new forms of warfare.

The core idea is to use long-range missiles, which serve as the backbone of counterattack capabilities, in conjunction with drones to create a composite attack situation that is difficult for the enemy to intercept, targeting enemy missile launch sites.

The proposed drones are expected to have a range of over 1,000 kilometers, with "kamikaze" drones being a popular option.

To expand the range and means of counterattacks, related plans also include introducing models that can be launched from aircraft or submarines, as well as those capable of operating underwater and on the surface.

In terms of long-range strike capabilities, the Japanese government has deployed the "Type 25 Anti-Ship Missile" with a range exceeding 1,000 kilometers at the Ground Self-Defense Force's Kengun garrison, and has introduced the U.S.-made "Tomahawk" cruise missile with a range exceeding 1,600 kilometers. Additionally, the government plans to enhance sustained combat capabilities by increasing the number of cost-effective, easily procurable attack drones. (Translated by Chen Rui)