General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) and Fujitsu Limited have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish maintenance and operational support for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) in Japan. The agreement focuses on the MQ-9B aircraft, designed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions.
Under the MOU, Fujitsu will explore providing domestic maintenance, parts management, and training support for the MQ-9B. The companies aim to create a sustainable operational foundation for UAS in Japan, addressing challenges such as parts procurement lead times and specialized personnel training.
The collaboration comes as Japan's Ministry of Defense plans to procure 23 MQ-9B aircraft for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, with deployment starting in fiscal year 2027. The MQ-9B offers over 24 hours of airborne capability via satellite-based remote operation, enhancing Japan's maritime surveillance.
GA-ASI and Fujitsu will also explore future technical collaboration in systems integration and mission systems. The partnership aims to support Japan's security objectives by enhancing wide-area intelligence-gathering capabilities.
Kenichiro Miyazaki of Fujitsu expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, highlighting Fujitsu's defense sector expertise. Zachary Stang of GA-ASI emphasized the importance of leveraging Fujitsu's maintenance excellence to expand UAS utility in Japan.