DSEI 2025 Report Highlights Japan's Expanding Defense Footprint
Hosted from May 21 to 23 at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, this year's exhibition and conference was the largest on record. The report confirms participation from 474 companies representing 32 countries, and over 13,000 unique attendees — a 59% increase compared to the previous 2023 iteration.
Japan's defense posture is evolving, and the report indicates how the country is increasingly linking national security to its industrial base. Over 140 major Japanese firms, including Mitsubishi Electric, NEC, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, and IHI, showcased systems for satellite communications, unmanned platforms, ISR, and cyber defense.
At the venue, both established and emerging Japanese companies stood alongside global defense giants like Lockheed Martin, BAE Systems, Airbus, Northrop Grumman, and SAAB. The Swedish SAAB anti-tank recoilless rifle training system is on display at DSEI Japan 2025. (©Hidemitsu Kaito) The Rakuten and Ukrainian agencies' booth showcases support for startups. (©Hidemitsu Kaito)
Attention also focused on smaller players. The Japanese Newcomer Zone, a special area sponsored by Deloitte Tohmatsu, featured startups and mid-sized businesses working on dual-use AI, compact drones, and threat detection software. Live demonstrations and interactive booths allowed these firms to connect directly with procurement officers and military planners.
According to the report, direct dialogue between innovative technology companies and key decision-makers helped foster new ideas to enhance regional security and defense strategies.
Conference sessions emphasized the region's shifting geopolitical landscape. Recurring themes included artificial intelligence, multi-domain operations, cyber resilience, and supply chain security.
The event featured 197 speakers across 33 sessions, with military and civilian leaders from Asia, Europe, and North America. A model of the next-generation fighter jet being jointly developed by Japan, the UK, and Italy. (©Hidemitsu Kaito)
A standout session focused on the Global Combat Air Program (GCAP), Japan's next-generation fighter jet initiative with the United Kingdom and Italy. The program was cited as a model for future defense-industrial collaboration.
Procurement policy and interoperability were likewise key topics at the event. A joint session hosted by NATO's Support and Procurement Agency and Japan's National Codification Bureau examined regulatory alignment and collaborative acquisition models.
According to the report, 1,137 VIPs attended the exhibition, including representatives from more than 30 countries. Among them were officials from the United States, the UK, France, India, Australia, Singapore, and Germany.
Japan itself fielded one of its most comprehensive delegations to date. Agencies represented included the Ministry of Defense, Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA), the Joint Staff, and all branches of the Self-Defense Forces. The Japan Coast Guard and National Police Agency were also present.
Senior political leaders lent weight to the event. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba delivered opening remarks emphasizing Japan's role in regional deterrence through cutting-edge technology. Defense Minister Gen Nakatani and Maria Eagle, the UK's Minister for Defence Procurement, also addressed attendees. PM Ishiba (front row, second from left) visits DSEI Japan, a trade fair for defense equipment and weapons, on May 22. (©Sankei)
Bilateral and multilateral panels featured speakers from the UK Strategic Command, Japan Air Self-Defense Force, and the US Indo-Pacific Command. Sessions were bilingual, underscoring DSEI Japan's growing role in international coordination.
Feedback from exhibitors and attendees was largely positive. According to the report, more than 80% of respondents described DSEI Japan as "vital to our business." The event's Net Promoter Score (metric for measuring customer loyalty and satisfaction) climbed to +24, a significant rise from +9 in 2023. 85% of participants indicated they would return for the next edition.
Companies like Fujitsu, which exhibited at DSEI Japan for the first time, described the experience as an effective entry point into international defense markets. "We were able to connect with overseas partners and learn where we can contribute," said Keita Yashima, senior director of Global Defense Office at Fujitsu.
The upcoming event, DSEI Japan 2027, is set for April 28–30 at Makuhari Messe. The organizers are expected to broaden the focus to include autonomous systems, cyber defense, and space-based platforms.
Author: Kenji Yoshida
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