Japanese Government to Explicitly Include AI Use in Self-Defense Forces in Security Documents

The Japanese government expects to revise its three security-related documents by the end of this year. Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi stated in an interview today that the use of artificial intelligence (AI) by the Self-Defense Forces will be explicitly included. Koizumi is currently in Singapore for the Shangri-La Dialogue. In an interview with the Nikkei, he argued, "Even with the latest defense equipment, if you cannot make rapid and accurate judgments, you cannot fully utilize its functions." The administration of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi plans to revise the three documents, including the National Security Strategy. Koizumi noted that the importance of AI is evident from recent global events, citing increased military AI use in the Ukraine conflict and other regions. He also emphasized promoting defense equipment exports, following the recent relaxation of the Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment, aiming to strengthen the domestic defense industry and build mutual assistance relationships. He also discussed plans for drone strategy and strengthening cooperation with the US, Australia, the Philippines, and South Korea.