The anti-drone market in Japan is growing rapidly due to the rising risks posed by unauthorized drone activities. As drones become increasingly accessible for recreational, commercial, and industrial use, concerns about their misuse have increased. Incidents involving drones disrupting airports or potentially being used for malicious purposes, including attacks on critical infrastructure, have highlighted the need for effective counter-drone solutions. With its reputation for technological innovation and a strong regulatory framework, Japan is emerging as a key player in the global anti-drone market.
The key driver for the market growth is the focus on securing critical infrastructure and public spaces. Airports, power plants, government buildings, and large-scale public events have increasingly become potential targets for rogue drones. Drone-related activities have been increasing in Japan. In January 2021, the Japanese Defense Ministry began researching vehicle-mounted counter-drone lasers to combat rogue drones. The ministry allocated USD 27 million from its 2021 budget for research and development of these technologies, with a portion of this funding expected to advance its laser and counter-drone systems. As of April 2022, Japan's military units were equipped with vehicle-mounted network electronic warfare systems (NEWS) designed to jam enemy radio frequencies. These systems can detect and disrupt electromagnetic communications from aircraft and vessels during peacetime and have the capability to jam enemy missiles, drones, and other assets during conflicts. In April 2023, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Kawasaki Heavy Industries introduced their high-energy laser anti-drone weapons designed to intercept and destroy incoming UAVs.
In response to the threats posed by North Korea's long-range ballistic missiles and China's maritime activities in the East China Sea, Japan has intensified efforts to strengthen its military air capabilities. The country is focused on enhancing continuous surveillance, maintaining air and maritime superiority, and improving command, control, and communication through the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Japan has been developing UAVs with advanced technologies specifically for tracking ballistic missiles and ordered the Global Hawk from the US in 2015. For instance, In June 2024, Kudan Inc. (Japan) launched its Lidar SLAM technology and incorporated it into Terra Drone Corporation's Lidar Dual. Additionally, Japan is considering acquiring the MQ-8C Fire Scout unmanned helicopter from Northrop Grumman to operate from its new Izumo-class amphibious assault ships. Japan's strong technological manufacturing base provides numerous opportunities for anti-drone system development. In December 2019, Japan's Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA) developed a prototype high-power microwave system capable of scrambling drone electronics from up to 10 meters away.
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The commercial sector is also driving demand for anti-drone solutions in Japan. Businesses and private organizations are increasingly concerned about protecting their intellectual property, preventing industrial surveillance, and ensuring the safety of employees and customers. Moreover, emerging technologies such as 5G networks and quantum computing are expected to enhance the detection and mitigation capabilities of counter-drone systems.
