Israel, which launched a military operation against Iran on February 28, needs help in the fight against Iranian “martyrs”. In this regard, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sent Ukraine a request for talks on cooperation in intercepting Iranian drones. At the same time, the Japanese government is also studying the possibility of using Ukrainian strike drones to strengthen its own defense capabilities. Tokyo is interested in Ukraine's combat experience gained during the confrontation with Russian aggression, Kyodo News reports.
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The initiative arose after the Ukrainian side appealed, according to sources. Kyiv is interested in technological exchange and is ready to offer its defense developments in exchange for Japan's support. It is expected to sign a bilateral agreement on the transfer of defense equipment with the protection of secret technologies.
Ukrainian drones have attracted the attention of the Japanese military due to their ability to operate at long distances and high resistance to radio-electronic interference. The Japanese Ministry of Defense notes that Ukraine has quickly modernized its drones based on real combat experience, which makes them powerful even compared to Israeli counterparts.
Although Japan is also considering purchasing drones from Israel, supplies from Ukraine are considered less controversial amid international criticism of the actions of the Israeli military in the Gaza Strip.
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In its draft budget for fiscal 2026, Japan's Defense Ministry has allocated 277.3 billion yen (about $1.7 billion) for the development of unmanned technology. The funds are planned to be used to create a new coastal defense system, SHIELD, capable of protecting remote islands from attacks. The program involves the purchase of a large number of drones for reconnaissance and strike operations.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has previously noted that the country has extensive experience in mass-producing inexpensive drones capable of destroying more expensive drones and missiles. He also stressed the importance of cooperation with Japan in the field of air defense. Japan, as an ally of the United States, produces Patriot anti-aircraft missile systems under an American license.
In addition, the Japanese government is considering relaxing rules on the transfer of military equipment, which could allow the country to export lethal weapons previously restricted by constitutional norms.
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As a reminder, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently announced that the first groups of Ukrainian military specialists have been sent to the Persian Gulf countries amid Iran's aggression. Ukrainian mobile units and air defense operators have extensive experience in intercepting Iranian “martyrs” and are ready to share this experience with those who need help.