Japan Coast Guard purchases two SeaGuardian drones for enhanced maritime surveillance.

According to a PR published by General Atomics on August 15, 2024, the Japan Coast Guard (JCG) has finalized a deal to purchase two SeaGuardian Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI), with delivery scheduled for 2025.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

Japanese Coast Guard SeaGuardian Remotely Piloted Aircraft. (Picture source: GA-ASI)

The SeaGuardian drones have been instrumental in various JCG missions, including search and rescue operations, disaster response, and maritime surveillance. Notably, the aircraft were deployed following the 7.6 magnitude earthquake near the Noto Peninsula earlier this year and during the 2023 G-7 Summit in Hiroshima.

Equipped with advanced sensors and capable of flying for over 24 hours, the SeaGuardian offers enhanced maritime surveillance capabilities. GA-ASI has also integrated its Optix+ software suite into the system, providing real-time intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) data. This software facilitates the detection of unusual activities at sea by correlating data from multiple sources, ensuring a comprehensive operational picture for JCG operators.

Japan Coast Guard

Over recent years, the JCG has been significantly upgrading its fleet and capabilities to address evolving security challenges, particularly in the East China Sea where tensions with China over the Senkaku Islands persist.

A major development in the JCG’s capabilities is the planned construction of its largest-ever patrol vessel. This multipurpose vessel, expected to be about 200 meters long and three times the tonnage of its largest current vessel, is designed to act as an offshore base.

It will carry smaller boats to counter potential incursions and could also be used for evacuating residents from remote islands in the event of a regional crisis. This ship is part of Japan's broader strategy to deter Chinese actions near the disputed islands and is expected to be operational by 2029.

In addition to strengthening its surface fleet, the JCG has been enhancing its aerial capabilities. It recently expanded its fleet of Airbus H225 helicopters, increasing the total number to 18. Furthermore, the JCG has engaged in international cooperation, notably conducting joint exercises with Taiwan's Coast Guard.