At the fourth annual German-Japanese Defence and Security Technology Forum, Germany meets Japan, in Tokyo, Japan, organised by the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan (AHK), approx. 26 exhibitors and approx. 600 visitors met to intensify the dialogue between the two countries.
This being not as easy as it sounds was stressed by various delegates, explaining that the collaboration between Germany and Japan is still in its infancy. There are strict controls on defence technology transfer, and even though the Japanese government is actively promoting defence exports, the country still is very cautious. Future prospects for defence cooperation are under strict security, but can be enhanced, as both countries share the principles and direction.
A German delegation consisting of Uwe Beckmeyer, Parliamentary State Secretary, German Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, and Gen. Klaus Veit, Deputy Director General for Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (AIN), German MoD, visited the event, where members of ATLA and METI gave presentations.
Current projects are currently running, e.g. LINK 22 data links for future fighter jets and MPA discussions, as well as more naval cooperation. Another larger cooperation is Airbus Defence & Space (DS) and Mitsubishi working on electronics and weapons together for a new fighter.
In terms of defence equipment procurement, ATLA has produced new strategies for defence technology, including a mid- to long-term outlook for the next 20 years and an unmanned vision. Most important, is maritime security, and cooperation with Germany growing in this area.
In the accompanying exhibition, Fujitsu and Airbus DS showcased Project Wolf. This consists of a Light Attack Aircraft (LCA) and a High Energy Advanced Trainer (HEAT) aircraft, both being based on the same aircraft design, including PIDS+ and GaN radar technology. Currently only in its conceptual phase, the LCA would be a multirole stealth aircraft with seven hard points for weapons.
Rheinmetall touted its HX 8x8 trucks, where the company is still in early phases with a Japanese partner, having delivered prototypes.
Photonis, having already delivered tubes to Japan, is currently pushing its 4G technology for the Japanese Self Defense Forces, alongside the SDI format for its NOCTURN and CNOD for law enforcement.
Dynamit Nobel Defence (DND) brought along its still in development RGW-110 recoilless lightweight multi-purpose weapon, which the South Korean Armed Forces have great interest in. With this weapon, which will be used by the German Armed Forces, once development is complete, DND can hit the market by mid next year. Japan could be a potential customer for this new weapon, as they are a user of DND's PANZERFAUST 3. The company is furthermore touting its simulation for its weapon systems, as well as a driving simulator that includes a Remote Weapon Station simulator, both of which were sold as a package to an international customer.
HP Marketing & Consulting Wüst informs on its RCIED and convoy jamming systems. A Counter-UAV system by Dedrone's DroneTracker is being touted as well. The C-UAV system is able to jam 2.4GHz, 5,8GHz, and GPS/GLONASS. HP Wüst showcased its EOD solution in the 20-700MHz and 700-2,800MHz range. The SME has sold jamming systems to approx. 50 countries, according to the CEO. HP Wüst's T-Series, for example, was developed for small tactical units and EOD teams, where it's booth partner at the event, Garant is showcasing the SPS 15 AvantGuard EOD/IEDD protection suit.
As the METI and ATLA put it, this forum embodies international defence cooperation.
