Japan Plans to Introduce Unmanned Stand-in Jammers to Disrupt Enemy Radar and Communications

TOKYO (CNA) - The Japanese Ministry of Defense is evaluating the introduction of unmanned "Stand-in Jammers" for the Self-Defense Forces, according to sources cited by Japanese media. These devices can disrupt enemy radar and communications using electromagnetic waves when they enter the range of enemy missiles and other weapons.

The Yomiuri Shimbun reported this news today, citing several Japanese government officials, and indicated that Japan intends to maintain its electronic warfare capabilities to deter potential aggressors, such as enemy submarines.

The Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency of Japan has begun research and development in fiscal year 2024 for an electronic jamming device that can be mounted on drones, with plans to complete development by fiscal year 2028.

In addition, the Japan Air Self-Defense Force deployed an "Off-Board Electronic Warfare" aircraft at Gifu Air Base in Gifu Prefecture last month. This aircraft can conduct electronic warfare outside the enemy's range and can be equipped with a long-range jamming device on the C-2 transport aircraft. It is expected to become operational in fiscal year 2027. The Japanese government plans to combine the use of these high-performance electronic warfare aircraft with "Stand-in Jammers" in the future to enhance operational effectiveness.

A "Stand-in Jammer" involves mounting a jamming device on a drone and bringing it close to the enemy to disrupt their air defense and information networks, thereby supporting Japanese aircraft and vessels. The advantage of relatively inexpensive drones is their ability to be deployed in large numbers and reduce personnel casualties.

Furthermore, the unmanned "Stand-in Jammers" that Japan is considering adopting are likely to be launched from aircraft. Other options include launching the devices from land or from frigates of the Maritime Self-Defense Force.

Electronic warfare, such as jamming and disrupting enemy radar or communications, has become common in military operations in recent years, including the Russia-Ukraine war. Considering this situation, Japan believes that enhancing its electronic warfare capabilities is a highly effective method of "asymmetric warfare" and deems it a priority to prepare for operations that effectively utilize drones.

The Japanese government plans to revise three security-related documents this year, which are expected to explicitly state the Self-Defense Forces' adoption of unmanned "Stand-in Jammers." (Compiled by Yang Wei-jen) 0706

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