Japan deploys unmanned ships to counter China's East China Sea aggression.

According to information published by Asia Times on August 8, 2024, Japan is enhancing its maritime defense capabilities with the deployment of Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs) in response to escalating tensions in the East China Sea.
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Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) stationed on JS Mogami (FFM-1) at JMSDF Yokosuka Naval Base. (Picture source: Hunini)

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) has prioritized the integration of USVs into its fleet, according to a report from the Indo-Pacific Defense Forum (IPDF). This strategic development is in direct response to China’s aggressive maneuvers around the Senkaku Islands, a group of uninhabited islets administered by Japan but claimed by China. A notable incident in June 2024 saw Chinese vessels intruding into Japanese waters for an unprecedented 64 hours.

Stephen Nagy, a professor of international relations at Japan’s International Christian University, emphasized the importance of boosting Japan’s maritime domain awareness, particularly in the Sea of Japan, Taiwan Strait, and South China Sea.

He pointed out that advanced capabilities in mine countermeasures and antisubmarine warfare are essential to counter potential blockades by China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLA-N).

Japan’s 2024 defense white paper highlights the critical role of USVs in national defense, citing their autonomy, safety, and cost-effectiveness compared to crewed vessels. The document also underscores the importance of collaboration with the U.S. Navy in advancing USV technology.

Japan's partnership with JMU Defense Systems has already produced a USV for testing on the JMSDF's latest Mogami-class frigate. This frigate is expected to serve as the mother ship for various uncrewed vessels, including those designed for underwater and mine disposal operations. Japan is also investing over $160 million in research and development for USVs in 2024.

The deployment of USVs is seen as a crucial step in addressing the growing naval imbalance between Japan and China. While China has rapidly expanded its fleet, with 88 modern frigates and destroyers by 2023, the JMSDF’s fleet has remained relatively static at around 50 combat ships.

While USVs offer Japan a way to mitigate its numerical disadvantage, they also open the door to more innovative naval strategies.

Japan's USV program also serves as a focal point for deepening US-Japan naval cooperation. In a bilateral exercise in September 2023, the JS Kumano frigate, USS Oakland, and USVs Ranger and Mariner conducted joint operations in Sagami Bay, strengthening the collaborative efforts in USV research and development.