Latest news with #DSEI
Japan Forward
6 days ago
- Business
- Japan Forward
DSEI 2025 Report Highlights Japan's Expanding Defense Footprint
Defense and Security Equipment International, better known as DSEI, has recently released a post-event report detailing the scope and strategic significance of its 2025 Japan exhibition. 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
Japan Forward
07-07-2025
- Science
- Japan Forward
Naval Railgun: Japan's New Chapter in Defense Innovation
Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force has unveiled an electromagnetic railgun atop the JS Asuka, a 6,200-ton experimental vessel. Military news site The War Zone reported the development on July 1. According to the report, the railgun installed on the Asuka closely resembles a prototype tested by Japan's Ministry of Defense, both on land and at sea, under the supervision of its Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA). The high-speed, cost-effective weapon is now undergoing operational trials, with a live-fire test at sea slated for late July. A railgun uses electromagnetic force instead of gunpowder to launch metal projectiles at hypersonic speeds, often surpassing Mach 6. It does so by discharging several megajoules (MJ) of electrical energy in an instant, propelling the projectile along a pair of metal rails. A view of the turret with the protective shroud still in place around the railgun. (©X account/HNlEHupY4Nr6hRM) Because the process generates intense heat and requires a dedicated cooling system too large for conventional destroyers, the JS Asuka was chosen. As an experimental vessel with a spacious, modular deck, it can meet the significant space and power requirements of the hardware. Despite its complexity, the railgun offers various advantages. Beyond targeting ships and ground-based threats, it holds potential for intercepting cruise missiles, drones, and even hypersonic projectiles. The kinetic rounds, or metal slugs, are inexpensive relative to other interceptor missiles and are easier to store. Japan's program stands in sharp contrast to that of the United States, which invested roughly $500 million USD from 2005 to late 2021 to develop two railgun prototypes. Though early signs of promise, the US ultimately shelved the program due to technical and logistical challenges. Japan's Ministry of Defense unveils "rail gun" at the DSEI exhibit (left) on May 21. (©Hidemitsu Kaito) Alongside Japan, countries including South Korea, China, Turkey, France, and Germany are actively pursuing railgun technology. South Korea launched its development efforts in 2010, spearheaded by its Agency for Defense Development. Japan's railgun model drew particular attention at the DSEI defense expo in June, where Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba visited the event to stress the government's commitment to advancing domestic defense innovation. Previously limited by postwar constitutional constraints and arms export bans, Japan is now gradually shedding its pacifist limitations. In 2023, for instance, Tokyo enacted the Act on Enhancing Defense Production and Technology Bases to facilitate government funding, R&D support, and international partnerships in the defense sector. PM Ishiba (front row, second from left) visits DSEI Japan, a trade fair for defense equipment and weapons, on May 22. (©Sankei) Mitsubishi Electric's air surveillance radar export to the Philippines in 2023 and 2024 marked one of Japan's first major arms transfers since WWII. Two of the four agreed units have been delivered, and Manila is considering an additional order of five, according to The Sankei Shimbun . Multiple reports also indicate that the Philippine Navy is exploring the purchase of six second-hand Abukuma-class destroyer escorts from Japan. Meanwhile, Tokyo is co-developing a sixth-generation stealth fighter with the United Kingdom and Italy under the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP). They aim to field the aircraft by the mid-2030s. If Japan's railgun sea trials prove successful, the country would become the first in the world to deploy an operational naval railgun system. Such a milestone would not only showcase the country's advancing technological capabilities but also signal its evolving strategic posture in response to intensifying military threats from neighboring countries. Author: Kenji Yoshida
Business News Wales
18-06-2025
- Business
- Business News Wales
Welsh Aerospace and Defence Sector Showcased at Paris Airshow
Wales' £3.7 billion aerospace and defence industries are going from strength-to-strength, with around 285 companies now manufacturing in the country, the Welsh Government has revealed. Whilst visiting the prestigious Paris Airshow, the Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans, also reinforced the Welsh Government's commitment to growing the closely integrated aerospace and defence sectors. Combined, Wales' aerospace and defence sectors support 16,000 jobs, have a turnover of more than £3.7 billion, and contribute around £1.5 billion in GVA to the Welsh economy. Eight of the world's top 11 global aerospace and defence companies maintain significant operations in Wales, including Airbus, RTX (formerly Raytheon), General Dynamics, GE Aerospace, BAE Systems, Safran, Rolls Royce and Thales. Speaking as part of the week-long event in Parc des Expositions de Paris-Le Bourget, the Cabinet Secretary highlighted the nation's key capabilities in the aerospace sector and its support of growth in defence equipment and technologies production, emphasising the established facilities, skilled workforce, and robust supply chains already in place across Wales. The Cabinet Secretary, Rebecca Evans, said: 'Wales boasts world class capabilities in the defence and aerospace sectors and Paris Airshow represents a global platform to further raise the profile of Wales as a dynamic hub for inward investment. 'We are committed to delivering for Welsh companies and supporting them to create new jobs in the industries of the future.' The Welsh Government said it was working to ensure that Wales benefits from additional expenditure in the defence sector, recently attending DSEI in Japan and soon to be taking a delegation of companies to DSEI in London in September.
South Wales Argus
18-06-2025
- Business
- South Wales Argus
Welsh Government backs aerospace and defence sectors
The Welsh Government has highlighted the strength of its £3.7 billion aerospace and defence sectors during the Paris Airshow, where cabinet secretary for economy, energy and planning, Rebecca Evans, reaffirmed support for the growing industries. Wales is home to around 285 aerospace and defence companies, supporting 16,000 jobs and contributing approximately £1.5 billion in GVA to the Welsh economy. Ms Evans said: "Wales boasts world-class capabilities in the defence and aerospace sectors and Paris Airshow represents a global platform to further raise the profile of Wales as a dynamic hub for inward investment." Eight of the world's top 11 aerospace and defence companies have a significant presence in Wales, including Airbus, RTX, General Dynamics, GE Aerospace, BAE Systems, Safran, Rolls Royce and Thales. Ms Evans said the Welsh Government is committed to supporting businesses to create jobs in emerging industries. The government recently attended DSEI in Japan and will lead a delegation to DSEI in London in September.
Japan Forward
28-05-2025
- Business
- Japan Forward
DSEI Japan: Showcasing Innovation Amid Rising Threats
DSEI Japan, the country's largest defense trade exhibition, was held at Makuhari Messe in Chiba from May 21 to 23. Originally launched in the United Kingdom, the event has taken place in Japan biannually since 2021, making this its third running. The 2025 event was the largest to date, featuring 471 exhibitors from 33 countries. Japanese companies comprised roughly 40% of all participants, reflecting the nation's growing interest in the defense industry. On May 22, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba became the first sitting Japanese leader to attend the exhibition. He delivered a speech stressing his commitment to defense equipment collaboration with allies and partner nations. "Advancing collaboration in equipment transfer, joint development, and joint production is crucial for promoting peace and stability in Japan and the region," he said. Ishiba highlighted China's "unilateral attempts to change the status quo" in the East and South China Seas, North Korea's ballistic missile launches, and expanding military cooperation between Russia and North Korea. "The security environment is becoming increasingly severe," he said. Kawasaki Heavy Industries' unmanned helicopter can carry 200 kg of cargo. (©Hidemitsu Kaito) Ishiba added, "Equipment cooperation will help strengthen deterrence not only for our country but also for our allies and partners." The Prime Minister also mentioned the significance of Japan, the UK, and Italy collaborating on the next-generation fighter jet, the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP). "This will lay the foundation for broad coordination with the UK and Italy for generations to come," he said. After his speech, Ishiba toured the venue, observing the latest defense technology. The exhibition featured cutting-edge technologies, including gears, small arms, large ships, unmanned vehicles, and cybersecurity systems. Japan's Ministry of Defense drew particular attention with its "railgun" (electromagnetic cannon) designed to intercept hypersonic missiles. Japan's Ministry of Defense unveils "rail gun" at the DSEI exhibit (left) on May 21. (©Hidemitsu Kaito) Rising geopolitical tensions are boosting demand for unmanned aircraft and automated, labor-saving technologies. They are also accelerating innovation to enhance soldier safety. Sweden's SAAB showcased a training system for anti-tank recoilless rifles. Meanwhile, Turkish firm OTOKAR displayed an armored vehicle designed for countering anti-tank mines. A Ukrainian company unveiled a drone-based precision strike system, gaining attention for its technology honed through real combat experience. SAAB showcases a training system for firing anti-tank recoilless rifles. (©Hidemitsu Kaito) On May 21, United States Ambassador to Japan George Glass attended the opening ceremony at the US Pavilion. In his remarks, the ambassador emphasized the need for regional stability and stronger deterrence."Coordination among allies in the Indo-Pacific, joint development, and joint production are essential. Collaboration between American and Japanese defense industries is indispensable," he said. Ambassador George Glass speaks at the opening ceremony of the US Pavilion. (©Hidemitsu Kaito) Kawasaki Heavy Industries presented an unmanned helicopter capable of carrying up to 200 kilograms of supplies for potential use in island defense. Meanwhile, Rakuten Group emphasized its support for Ukrainian startups through partnerships with Ukrainian government agencies. The Rakuten and Ukrainian agencies' booth showcases support for startups. (©Hidemitsu Kaito) Defense Minister Gen Nakatani tours the exhibition on May 21. (©Hidemitsu Kaito) Defense Minister Gen Nakatani, who toured the venue on the first day, said, "The number of enlistments in the Self-Defense Forces (SDF) is declining, making the introduction of drones and labor-saving equipment essential." The SDF has a capacity of around 247,000 personnel, but is projected to face a shortfall of 23,000 by the end of 2024. Japan's defense system continues to evolve. The FY2025 defense budget is set at ¥8.4748 trillion JPY ($58.8 billion USD). This level represents a 9.7% increase from the previous year and reaches 1.8% of GDP. In 2020, the Air Self-Defense Force established a Space Operations Squadron to focus on outer space. Space surveillance has become increasingly vital, as evidenced by foreign firms capturing real-time satellite images of a North Korean destroyer grounding during its launch ceremony. A model of the next-generation fighter jet being jointly developed by Japan, the UK, and Italy. (©Hidemitsu Kaito) The next-generation fighter jet under development, GCAP, mentioned by Ishiba, is expected to outperform the American stealth fighter F-35. However, as China and Russia rapidly expand their military power, Japan must further strengthen its defense capabilities. ( Read this in Japanese ) Author: Hidemitsu Kaito
