Japan will deploy 23 SeaGuardian drones at bases in Kagoshima and Aomori to enhance intelligence

SeaGuardian is the key to Japan's new patrol strategy

The Japanese government has revealed details of a large-scale program for the purchase and deployment of large American-made reconnaissance drones. The Ministry of Defense plans to purchase 23 SeaGuardian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) manufactured by General Atomics and deploy them at two key bases of the Maritime Self—Defense Forces (MSDF) in southwestern Kagoshima Prefecture and northeastern Aomori.

This step is aimed at strengthening the intelligence coverage of the territories adjacent to the East China Sea, as well as to the northern islands, where activity from China and Russia is growing.

Kanoya and Hachinohe bases: control over strategic regions

About 10 drones will be deployed at the Kanoya Air Base in Kagoshima, a strategically important hub off the southern islands, including the Philippines. Another group will appear at the Hachinohe airbase in Aomori, a key point in the northeast of the country, from where control over the Pacific coast and the approach to the Sea of Okhotsk is possible.

The deployment in these two enclaves will ensure round-the-clock monitoring of sea and air routes, which is especially important in the face of growing challenges to national security.

Replacement of manned aircraft with unmanned systems

The 11-meter-long SeaGuardian is capable of staying aloft for up to 24 hours without landing, making it ideal for long-duration patrol missions. It is equipped with radar, electronic and optical systems to detect ships, submarines and intruders.

According to the Ministry of Defense, the UAVs will become a partial replacement for manned patrol aircraft such as the Kawasaki P-1 and P-3C Orion, which will reduce the burden on flight personnel and reduce operating costs.

The role of the private sector and implementation plans

An interesting feature of the project will be the participation of the private sector. As reported, from fiscal year 2027, a private company will begin operating drones based on Kanoy, including maintenance and flights. From 2028, management will be transferred directly to the Maritime Self-Defense Forces.

The deployment schedule at Hachinohe base remains uncertain for now, but it is expected to follow shortly after the successful launch in Kagoshima. Officials also stressed that flight routes will be chosen in such a way as to minimize the noise impact on the local population.

Sources

1. Armiya.az — Japan to acquire 23 MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones for the Maritime Self-Defense Force; about 10 units each at Kanoya (Kagoshima) and Hachinohe (Aomori) bases, with private-sector ops starting FY 2027 and full JSDF takeover in FY 2028.
2. Russia Japan Society — MoD details: 23 large SeaGuardian UAVs (11 m long, 24-h endurance) to replace manned patrol aircraft; northeast and southwest basing and noise-mitigation flight paths.
3. Rossaprimavera.ru — record defense budget earmarks mass deployment of MQ-9B SeaGuardian for East China Sea surveillance.
4. Japan Times — Coast Guard plans to buy four additional SeaGuardian aircraft by FY 2026, expanding the fleet to nine units and enhancing maritime domain awareness.

Japan is testing a new railgun on a military vessel

 Several images taken at the Japanese naval base, possibly in Yokosuka, which show something similar to a new version of the railgun installed on the experimental vessel JS Asuka (ASE-6102) of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Forces. The images show a tower with an angular design, consistent with previous official reports indicating that Asuka conducted the first test firing a railgun on a ship in 2023.

This observation is also consistent with ongoing testing activities involving an electromagnetic weapon system developed by the Japan Agency for Procurement, Technology and Logistics (ATLA).

Japan Maritime Self-Defense Forces Strengthen Submarine Fleet: Fourth Taigei-Class Submarine Commissioned

JS Raigei

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) has announced the commissioning of the fourth Taigei-class diesel-electric attack submarine (SSK). The new submarine, named JS Raigei (tail number SS 516), was incorporated into the 1st Submarine Division of the 1st Flotilla, based at the Kure Naval Base in Hiroshima Prefecture.

The Taigei-class submarine features significant improvements in detection and anti-detection compared to previous models. These improvements make JS Raigei one of the most modern and efficient submarines in the region.

Main Features

1. Improved Sensors: New detection systems allow the submarine to more effectively identify targets and threats.

2. Noise Reduction: Masking and noise reduction technologies make JS Raigei virtually invisible to the enemy.

3. Enhanced Autonomy: Improved life support and power supply systems allow the submarine to stay in autonomous navigation longer.

The commissioning of the JS Raigei is an important step in strengthening Japan's defense capability. The Taigei-class submarine significantly enhances the combat capabilities of the JMSDF and helps strengthen the country's position in the region.

JS Raigei was handed over to the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Forces by Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI) at its facility in Kobe on March 6. After successful tests and inspections, the submarine was officially incorporated into the 1st Submarine Division.

The commissioning of the fourth Taigei-class submarine demonstrates Japan's commitment to modernizing and strengthening its submarine fleet. JS Raigei will become an important element of the country's defense, providing a high degree of protection and readiness for the challenges of the modern world.

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The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force continues to strengthen its position by introducing advanced technologies and innovations. The JS Raigei is not just a new submarine, it is a symbol of Japan's commitment to security and stability in the region.