By Li Xuesong and Shu Jiahui
According to Japanese media reports, Japan's company Fujitsu recently announced that it has launched the Accelerator Program for Defense Tech commissioned by Japan's Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA). Packaged as an "open innovation" initiative, the program aims to accelerate the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in the military field and explore the in-depth integration of AI in key areas such as operational analysis, mission planning, and command assistance.
The program focuses on building a multi-agent collaborative system, connecting the entire chain of data collection, intelligence processing, and decision support through multi-model linkage to improve command efficiency and reduce human workload. The ATLA seeks to leverage this opportunity to draw resources from start-up enterprises, accelerate the transformation of dual-use technologies, and promote the practical application of AI technology in the defense sector.
At the institutional level, Japan has continued to "relax restrictions" on the military application of AI in recent years. From the lifting of the ban on collective self-defense rights in 2015 to the release of the new version of the National Security Strategy in 2022, Japan has gradually relaxed restrictions on the research and development (R&D) and application of military technologies. At the organizational level, Japan's Ministry of Defense relies on the ATLA to coordinate equipment R&D and procurement, and has established a dedicated department to promote the transformation of AI and other cutting-edge technologies into operational systems.
Such ambition is also reflected in sustained budget input. Against the backdrop of Japan's defense budget hitting record highs for consecutive years, AI and unmanned systems have become key investment areas. In Fiscal Year 2025, Japan's Ministry of Defense set a budget of approximately 196.9 billion yen (equivalent to about 1.236 billion US dollars) for AI-related projects. In the Fiscal Year 2026 budget proposal, special funds have been earmarked for coastal unmanned defense systems, collaborative unmanned wingmen, and drone swarm control, among others. At the application level, the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) are accelerating the intelligent modification of command and control systems. The AI upgrade of its main command platform, the all-domain operational command and control system, has entered the testing phase. It has previously completed full-process verification during the 2025 Fuji Firepower Exercise.
To support the R&D and application promotion of relevant technologies, Japan is building a "government-led, enterprise-engaged, and university-backed" collaborative framework. Enterprises such as Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Kawasaki Heavy Industries have formed clear divisions of labor in areas like unmanned platforms and intelligent ammunition. Universities including the University of Tokyo and Kyoto University provide technical support for the military application of AI by establishing joint laboratories and carrying out specialized talent training, among other measures.
Japan's measures to promote the militarization of AI have sparked doubts at home. Public opinion holds that although the Japanese authorities repeatedly claim to adhere to the principle of "ultimate human control over AI", the ethical red line of algorithmic intervention remains ambiguous. Such radical expansion of military technology under the guise of "defense" reflects Japan's risk-taking propensity in security policy, which is likely to sow seeds of danger for regional peace and stability.