Image source: topwar.ru
In December 2022, the Japanese government changed the country's defense policy, indicating that the state faced "the most difficult and dangerous security situation" after the Second World War. In this regard, it was envisaged to build up military capabilities aimed at combating China as the "greatest strategic challenge" and the DPRK as a "more serious and imminent threat than it was before."
It was noted that it is not enough for Japan to have missile defense to confront these countries. It was pointed out the need to equip the troops with reconnaissance and strike drones. At that time, local media pointed out that in terms of UAV strikes, it was a question of choosing between the Turkish Bayraktar TB2 and the American MQ-9 Reaper.
The issue of their acquisition is beginning to move into the practical plane. As noted in the publication SavunmaSanayiST, Tokyo has decided to start testing Bayraktar TB2 and Reaper. In an effort to build on its success in the potential market, the manufacturer has already stated that the TB3 version, the first flight of which is expected soon, is optimally suited for placement on Izumo-type helicopter carriers, since it has folding wings.
