Japan unveils AI combat support drones at Tokyo Aerospace Exhibition

At the 2024 International Aerospace Exhibition at Tokyo Big Sight in Ariake, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), a significant player in Japan's defence sector, showcased two concept models of AI-equipped combat support drones, including the ARMDC-20X (AI).

These drones are integral to Japan’s national defence strategy, aimed at developing “teaming” capabilities between manned and unmanned aircraft as part of an international programme with UK and Italy for a next-generation fighter, expected to be operational by 2035, Caliber.Az reports via Army Recognition.

Harnessing artificial intelligence, these autonomous drones offer innovative solutions to support air superiority.

MHI is not the only company working on combat support drones. This project is part of a broader national initiative, with firms such as Kawasaki Heavy Industries, SUBARU, and Japan Aircraft Supply also advancing research and development in autonomous systems.

In 2022, MHI launched an exploratory study on integrating AI into drones, funded by ATLA, and received additional funding in 2024 to evaluate the safety of combat support drone software. As part of this collaborative effort, Kawasaki was awarded a contract worth 3.9 billion yen ($26 million) in 2022 to research the enhancement of autonomous combat support drones’ performance.

Meanwhile, SUBARU is focused on reducing the costs of drone systems, and Japan Aircraft Supply is conducting feasibility studies for autonomous support missions, backed by a 200 million yen ($1.33 million) research budget.

The expansion of these projects highlights Japan’s commitment to developing unmanned combat systems that fully integrate with traditional air forces. By strengthening cooperation between drones and piloted aircraft, Japan aims to mitigate the numerical disadvantages of its air forces in comparison to rapidly growing opposing fleets.

In conclusion, MHI and its partners' projects represent a significant step in modernising Japan’s air defence capabilities, blending technological innovation with economic strategy. The scheduled test flights in 2025 are expected to mark the beginning of a new era of autonomous, coordinated aerial combat, providing Japan with the means to address future security challenges.

By Aghakazim Guliyev