The Japanese Coast Guard has begun using American MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones

Japan's Coast Guard has begun using American MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones.

Here's What We Know

Last week, the Japanese Coast Guard began using a drone from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems. The drone is based at the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force's Hachinohe Air Base.

The MQ-9B SeaGuardian is designed to monitor and enforce law and order. It will fly over the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Japan. If necessary, the Coast Guard will be able to use the drone in search and rescue operations.

The drone is equipped with a multi-mode maritime radar. The drone complies with NATO airworthiness standard STANAG 4671, which allows the use of the American MQ-9B SeaGuardian in the airspace of other NATO countries.

Japan ordered the drones from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems in April 2022. How many drones General Atomics Aeronautical Systems will send to Japan is currently undisclosed.

Source: Defense News