Japan’s Defense Minister Minoru Kihara is calling for stronger anti-drone measures following a video that surfaced on Chinese social media showing a Japanese aircraft carrier at a restricted navy port near Tokyo. The video, likely filmed by a drone, prompted an investigation confirming the security breach. Kihara emphasized the seriousness of the security threat and the need to bolster anti-drone capabilities to protect defense facilities from potential disruptions.
The footage, posted in March, featured the JS Izumo, one of Japan’s helicopter carriers, docked at the Yokosuka naval base. The carrier was being retrofitted to carry stealth fighters as part of Japan’s efforts to enhance its counter-strike capability in response to China’s military activities in the Indo-Pacific region. Kihara highlighted the vulnerability of defense facilities to drone attacks and the importance of developing stronger defenses against advancing drone technology.
While the specifics of how the drone was able to film the aircraft carrier undetected remain undisclosed for security reasons, Kihara acknowledged the need to fortify defenses around military bases and enhance counter measures against drones. Japan plans to introduce more capable anti-drone equipment and implement tactics such as forcible landing of drones through jamming. The country is actively working to keep up with the rapid advancements in drone technology to safeguard its defense facilities.
The incident with the drone filming the aircraft carrier comes amid Japan’s military buildup efforts to strengthen its counter-strike capability with long-range missiles, as outlined in its security strategy adopted in 2022. The JS Izumo plays a crucial role in this strategy, and ensuring the security of defense facilities is paramount to Japan’s national defense. This incident underscores the importance of being proactive in addressing potential security threats posed by drones.
In 2015, Japan experienced a separate incident involving a drone found on the roof of the prime minister’s office containing traces of radiation. While no injuries or damage occurred, the incident raised concerns about the potential use of drones for terrorist attacks. Subsequently, drone flights have been restricted in certain sensitive areas, including public and diplomatic locations, as well as nuclear power facilities. The increase in drone violations necessitates continuous efforts to mitigate security risks associated with drone technology.
Japan is committed to improving its anti-drone capabilities and response measures to prevent unauthorized drone activities near defense facilities. As the country faces evolving security challenges in the region, including heightened tensions with China, it is crucial to stay vigilant and prepared for potential threats. Strengthening defenses against drones is part of Japan’s broader national security strategy to safeguard its sovereignty and protect against security risks posed by emerging technologies.
