Japan is currently assessing an invitation from Latvia to join a coalition of nations focused on supplying drones and technology to Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. The initiative, known as the “Ukraine Drone Coalition,” was launched by Latvia in February and aims to provide drones, spare parts, and technical expertise to support Ukraine’s defense efforts.
Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braze confirmed that Japan has been invited to participate in this growing coalition, which already includes twenty other countries. In a statement to the Chiyoda-based news agency Nikkei, Braze expressed enthusiasm about the potential inclusion of Japan, emphasizing the coalition’s objectives and collaborative spirit.
Japan’s Defense Minister Gen Nakatani acknowledged that the invitation was received last September, following discussions between the foreign ministers of Latvia and Japan. Nakatani reiterated Japan’s commitment to supporting Ukraine, highlighting that the nation will continue to explore its involvement in the coalition. However, he noted the constitutional restrictions that prevent Japan from providing lethal weapons, which means its contribution would likely focus on non-combat areas like surveillance and reconnaissance.
The Ukraine Drone Coalition, comprising primarily European nations along with Australia and New Zealand, has collectively pledged approximately 1.8 billion euros (about $2.1 billion) to support Ukraine. If Japan officially joins, it would become the first East Asian nation to be part of this initiative. The coalition aims to share battlefield experiences with unmanned aerial vehicles, which many member nations view as vital for advancing their own domestic industries.
Braze underscored the urgency of applying lessons learned from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of rapid testing, production, and innovation in drone technology. She also suggested that Japan could lend its expertise in areas such as detection and electronic warfare, broadening the scope of collaboration.
The use of drones has significantly impacted the Ukraine conflict, with estimates indicating that they account for a substantial number of casualties on both sides. Drones have played a crucial role in artillery and air strikes, and Russia has accelerated its drone production throughout the war. Additionally, reports have emerged that North Korea has dispatched troops to aid Russia, adding another layer of complexity to the conflict.
Beyond military applications, Braze pointed to Russia’s efforts to utilize disinformation campaigns against Western nations, highlighting a coordinated attempt to destabilize societies and erode public trust in democratic institutions. Latvia, sharing a border with Russia and hosting NATO’s Strategic Communications Center of Excellence, has positioned itself as a frontrunner in combating online propaganda. Braze noted that there are opportunities for Latvia and Japan to exchange best practices in countering disinformation.
In response to the changing geopolitical landscape following Russia’s invasion, Japan has revised its defense export policies, allowing for limited arms exports. Since these adjustments were made in 2022, Japan has provided non-lethal assistance, including items like helmets, vests, and small unmanned aerial systems to Ukraine. The potential collaboration with Latvia and other countries in the Drone Coalition could further enhance Japan’s role in international defense initiatives.
