japonya, Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) to meet their needs and increase maritime safety. 23 MQ-9B SeaGuardian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) plans to supply. Based in the USA General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) These UAVs, developed by , will increase Japan's maritime surveillance capacity.
Procurement Plan and Timeline
Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), Defense Restructuring Program approved in 2022 planned to purchase these UAVs under the JMSDF SözcüAccording to Su'n:
- Deliveries: The first MQ-9B UAV Coming into service in fiscal 2028 is being planned.
- Completion Date: All 23 UAVs By fiscal year 2032 is intended to be delivered.
- Deployment Locations: Although not yet finalized, deployment points will be determined after all air bases are examined.
Features of MQ-9B SeaGuardian
The MQ-9B SeaGuardian is a maritime surveillance UAV that stands out with its high-tech sensors and long-range surveillance capacity.
Technical Specifications
- Flight time: Long duty cycles of up to 40 hours.
- Sensors:
- Maritime surveillance radars
- Electro-optic/infrared sensors
- Automatic Identification System (AIS)
- Max Altitude: 40.000 feet
- Weather Resistance: Ability to operate even in difficult weather conditions.
Usage areas
- Maritime Surveillance: The MQ-9B can monitor sea surface movements and detect security breaches.
- Underwater Safety: Monitoring and analyzing submarine movements.
- Closing the Manpower Gap: The JMSDF is expected to increase effectiveness by filling the human resources gap.
Weapons and Equipment Issue
The MQ-9B SeaGuardian UAVs are designed for Japan without weapons. The JMSDF does not plan for the UAVs to carry any ammunition or weapons:
- Ammunition Systems: Munitions such as JSM (Joint Strike Missile) or torpedoes will not be integrated.
- Sonoboy Kits: Sonobuoy kits used for submarine detection will also not be ordered.
This approach is consistent with Japan's defense-oriented strategy and policies aimed at enhancing deterrence in the region.
Okinawa and Regional Security
In recent years, Incidents between Chinese ships and Japanese naval forces around Okinawa, increased tension in the region. In this context:
- The MQ-9B UAVs are likely to be deployed around Okinawa.
- The UAVs will be used to monitor China's maritime activities in the region and provide early warning of potential threats.
Cooperation with Maritime Patrol Aircraft: The MUMT Issue
Japan's current with MQ-9B P-1 maritime patrol aircraft between Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUMT) It is not yet clear whether a cooperation called JMSDF will be realized. Sözcüsü made the following statement on this matter:
- “At this stage, it has not been decided whether it will be controlled from P-1 aircraft.”
This potential integration could increase the effectiveness of UAVs and enable the creation of a multi-layered surveillance network.
Japan's Defense Vision
Approved in December 2022 Defense Restructuring Program, outlines Japan's defense technology modernization goals. This program includes:
- Multi-Layered Surveillance: In addition to UAVs, various unmanned vehicles will be deployed to ensure maritime superiority.
- Supporting Human Resources: UAVs will play a key role in addressing manpower shortages.
Japan's Regional Balance of Power
Procurement of MQ-9B SeaGuardian UAVs is Japan’s way of enhancing maritime security and Strengthening regional deterrence These modern UAVs will significantly increase the JMSDF’s surveillance capabilities while also reducing the burden on human resources.
This investment by Japan is considered a critical step in ensuring both regional security and preserving its strategic superiority at sea.
