Japan and the United States have recently agreed to initiate collaborative research on artificial intelligence with the aim of leveraging the technology for drones that would operate alongside Japan’s future fighter aircraft.
By 2035, Japan intends to engage in a joint venture with Britain and Italy to create a next-generation fighter plane. Although the United States, Japan’s primary security partner, is not involved in this fighter jet initiative, it has expressed interest in enhancing defense cooperation with Tokyo, particularly in the realm of autonomous systems capabilities.
The primary goal of the AI research partnership is to transform aerial combat by integrating cutting-edge artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies with advanced unmanned aerial vehicles. This initiative was highlighted in a press release by the U.S. Air Force following the agreement signing last month.
The developed AI through this collaborative effort is envisioned to be integrated into UAVs that will operate in conjunction with Japan’s upcoming fighter aircraft, underscoring the strategic importance of this cooperation in preserving the technological edge of the Japan-U.S. alliance.
These drones are designed to gather data by flying in close proximity to fighter jets, enhancing reconnaissance capabilities.
In December 2022, a trilateral agreement was reached for the development of the next-generation fighter jets, with the United States endorsing Japan’s defense collaboration with the two NATO nations amidst Japan’s security challenges, particularly in light of China’s growing assertiveness.
Initially, Tokyo had considered partnering with U.S. defense companies for new fighter development; however, due to stringent U.S. regulations on information security, Japan opted to explore collaborations with other allies.
Japan aims to succeed its F-2 aircraft, while Britain and Italy seek to modernize their Eurofighter fleets through this joint program, marking Japan’s first defense equipment development collaboration with a nation other than the United States.
