Japan is considering adding Turkish unmanned aerial vehicles (UCAVs), which have proven themselves in the conflict in Ukraine, to its inventory. Baykar’s Bayraktar TB2 and TB3 models and TAI’s Anka platform are among the most important options on Japan’s radar.
Turkey is preparing to sell UCAVs to Japan
Japanese Defense Minister Gen. Nakatani recently visited Turkey for this purpose. Meeting with National Defense Minister Yaşar Güler in Ankara, Nakatani agreed to increase defense cooperation between the two countries. During these meetings, Nakatani toured Turkish defense companies. Baykar and TAI facilities were also included in the visit program.
Japan’s interest in Turkish UCAVs stems from their cost-effectiveness and operational success. For example, the Bayraktar TB2 stands out for its long flight endurance and intelligence-gathering capabilities.
The TB2, which is significantly cheaper than similar US-made systems, costs approximately $5 million. Systems like the MQ-9B SeaGuardian purchased from the US cost approximately $81 million.
The Japanese Ministry of Defense is including plans to purchase unmanned aerial vehicles in its fiscal year 2026 budget request. Japan, which is considering allocating a total of 200 billion yen (approximately $1.4 billion), is considering not only Turkish-made UAVs but also U.S., U.K., and Australian-made drones.
Japan plans to use these UAVs for air and maritime surveillance, as well as rapid response to airspace violations. The goal is to have air, sea, and underwater drones in the Japan Self-Defense Forces by the end of fiscal year 2027.
