The Ground Self-Defense Force is conducting demonstration tests of interceptor and attack drones developed by German company Helsing, while Rakuten Group is expected to serve as its point of contact with the Ministry of Defense. The article examines corporate moves to enter the defense-tech sector.
The Ground Self-Defense Force is conducting demonstration tests of an interceptor drone developed by German company Helsing and its HX-2 attack drone. The possibility that Rakuten Group will serve as Helsing's point of contact with the Ministry of Defense has also emerged, drawing attention to the group's initiatives in the drone sector, including its e-commerce business.
As background to corporate participation in the defense-tech sector, the article discusses the military use of advanced technologies and the spread of gamified weapons simulations, as well as developments in the United States and China and the responses of private companies. It also explains examples of technology being repurposed during the Gulf War and the use of game engines for simulations in the defense sector.
Rakuten's partnership with Helsing is positioned as one example of Japanese participation in defense tech, with the group’s experience in logistics and e-commerce identified as a potential advantage. The article also touches on moves by other companies and market reaction, suggesting that government procurement has significant influence.
The article also presents the view that participation in defense tech has become a political litmus test, and reports that attention is focused on future developments and further coverage.