Japan is testing Bayraktar TB2 (pictured) for its army’s medium-altitude long-endurance UAV requirements. (Baykar Makina )
The Japan Ministry of Defense (MoD) has been testing medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE) unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to finalise procurements best suited to meet the requirements of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF).
A spokesperson for the MoD told Janes on 21 August that the MoD tested the Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) Heron MK II, and is currently testing Türkiye’s Bayraktar TB2 UAVs for the JGSDF.
“The test and evaluation of the Heron Mk II concluded in FY [fiscal year] 2024, while the Bayraktar TB2 is scheduled to complete its demonstration trials within the current fiscal year,” the spokesperson said.
The spokesperson added that the MoD has not yet decided if it will procure these UAVs. “The selection of specific systems for potential procurement will be determined through a careful and comprehensive assessment of various factors. In general, defence equipment procurement is conducted through a comprehensive evaluation process that reflects Japan’s security environment and considers factors such as performance, cost, and logistical sustainability,” the spokesperson said.
Heron Mk II and Bayraktar TB2 can be deployed by the JGSDF to enhance intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR). The tests of these UAVs and the MoD’s intended procurements are in line with Japan’s 2025 defence White Paper, which underscores the need to procure more unmanned systems that can support the Japan Self-Defense Forces’ (JSDF’s) ISR and combat operations.
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