Japanese Media: Japan to Develop Unmanned Vessels to Counter China
According to a report by *Yomiuri Shimbun*, Japan will launch research and development of unmanned vessels to counter China, with related funding included in the budget for the next fiscal year (April 1, 2027 – March 31, 2028).
The Japanese government expects that by combining unmanned vessels with patrol ships and drones, the Coast Guard will be able to effectively respond to China's activities in its surrounding waters.
Japan plans to revise the Basic Policy for Strengthening the Capabilities of the Coast Guard for the first time in four years, with the initial draft scheduled for release in December 2022.
The associated costs will be included in the draft budget for the 2027 fiscal year (April 1, 2027 – March 31, 2028). Additionally, an annex concerning unmanned vessels will also be incorporated into three security strategy documents that Japan plans to revise before the end of the year.
It is expected that the Japan Coast Guard will begin deploying unmanned vessels starting in 2032, which will not only expand its surveillance capabilities in border waters but also help alleviate the current severe shortage of personnel.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1871119440249033/
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