Japan and Turkey to Fortify Defense Ties with Drone Technology Talks

Japan and Turkey are set to enhance collaboration in defense technology, focusing on drone capabilities. The Japanese Defense Minister announced discussions aimed at strengthening ties between the two nations' defense industries, during his visit to Turkish Aerospace Industries, shipyards, and drone manufacturers.

Japan and Turkey are embarking on discussions to deepen their cooperation in the realm of defense technologies, according to an announcement by Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani. These talks, held in Istanbul, are aimed at fostering stronger ties between the defense industries of both nations.

While Turkey-backed firms have actively supplied armed drones to countries such as Ukraine, Japan is keen on expanding its own use of unmanned aerial vehicles. Nakatani emphasized the commitment to start working-level exchanges between respective equipment authorities to facilitate these ambitions.

Nakatani's visit to Turkey marks the first official trip by a Japanese Defense Minister to the NATO member country. Discussions included Japan's interest in Turkey's drone capabilities and a review of export control frameworks. However, Nakatani clarified that this does not necessarily mean Japan will acquire Turkish defense products.