Japan plans to deploy its own network of interceptor drones as early as 2027 to protect against long-range strike drones, including analogues of the Iranian "Shaheds." Before this, Japanese anti-aircraft drones Terra A1 and Terra A2 were tested in Ukraine, reports UNN citing Defense Express.
Details
During April-May 2026, the Japanese company Terra Drone transferred two types of its drones to Ukraine for testing. According to the publication, after successful tests, the Japan Ministry of Defense's Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency launched projects for the accelerated deployment of such systems in its own Self-Defense Forces.
What characteristics do Japanese drones have
According to open data, the Terra A1 drone, built on a copter design, has a flight range of up to 18 kilometers, stays in the air for up to 15 minutes, and reaches speeds of up to 300 km/h. The Terra A2 is a jet-powered fixed-wing drone with a speed of up to 312 km/h, a range of up to 75 kilometers, and a flight duration of up to 40 minutes. It is reported that the A1 was tested in the Chernihiv region, and the A2 in the Kharkiv region.
In Japan, the new interceptor drones are planned to be used to cover military bases, radar stations, ships, and other strategic facilities. One of the program's requirements is the use of systems that have already been tested in other countries, which effectively makes the Ukrainian experience an important stage for the future deployment of Japan's counter-strike drone network.