(KYIV) – The Japanese government is actively considering the acquisition of Ukrainian made attack drones to enhance its national defence capabilities. This strategic move leverages Ukraine’s extensive combat experience gained during its defence against Russian military aggression. According to Kyodo News reports on 15 March 2026, Tokyo is prioritising Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) over Israeli alternatives due to their proven resilience and the complex geopolitical landscape.
The two nations are currently drafting a bilateral arms transfer agreement designed to safeguard sensitive military secrets. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed a strong desire to exchange Ukrainian defence technologies for weapons provided by Japan. This arrangement is particularly significant as the Japanese Constitution currently restricts the transfer of weapons to foreign nations. The proposal follows a formal approach by Ukraine to the Japanese leadership regarding drone cooperation.
In its fiscal 2026 draft budget, the Japanese Ministry of Defence has earmarked 277.3 billion yen, equivalent to approximately 1.74 billion US dollars ($1.74bn), for the reinforcement of its defences through unmanned assets. These funds are intended for the “Synchronised, Hybrid, Integrated and Enhanced Littoral Defence” (SHIELD) programme, which aims to protect remote islands. Japanese officials indicated that while Israeli drones were an option, sourcing from Ukraine is deemed less controversial given the international criticism regarding Israeli military actions in the Gaza Strip.
Ukrainian drones are specifically noted for their long range flight capabilities and high resistance to electronic interference. A source within the Japanese Ministry of Defence stated that despite Japan’s limited expertise in drone technology, Ukraine has rapidly modernised its fleet based on real world battlefield requirements, resulting in highly capable systems. To facilitate this cooperation, the administration of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi plans to ease regulations on the transfer of defence equipment in April. These changes would, in principle, permit the export of lethal weapons and allow Ukraine to receive Japanese military hardware under exceptional treatment protocols.
