Japan in Talks to Procure Kawasaki K-Racer Drone for Military Logistics
Japan is in talks with Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI) over the potential acquisition of the K-RACER drone to support military logistics missions.
A company spokesperson told Australian Defence Magazine that interest from the military followed a successful 2024 demonstration in which the drone autonomously loaded and unloaded cargo.
Since then, KHI has reportedly held multiple discussions with the Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency and various branches of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF).
A rotorcraft-style drone, the K-RACER can carry up to 100 kilograms (220 pounds) of cargo at altitudes reaching 3,000 meters (9,842 feet), making it suitable for operations across Japan’s mountainous terrain.
It is powered by a 998cc Kawasaki Ninja H2R four-cylinder engine, the same one used in Kawasaki’s high-performance motorcycles.
It also features a seven-meter (23-foot) airframe with a foldable tail, allowing it to fit inside standard 20- or 40-foot (6- and 12-meter) shipping containers.
Addressing Key Gaps
The K-RACER features a hardware-agnostic control system and an intuitive interface, minimizing training time and reducing the likelihood of operator error.
Its autonomous loading and unloading capabilities help lower manpower needs, an important benefit as Japan’s military continues to face recruitment challenges.
With an operational range of over 100 kilometers (62 miles), the drone can transport ammunition, weapons, medical supplies, and other essentials to remote or difficult terrain.
This aligns with Tokyo’s wider efforts to improve transportation and logistics within the JGSDF, especially in challenging environments.
Japan is also pursuing other transport drone options, including trials of the US-made Chaparral and a new program to develop a domestic multi-role logistics drone.
