Japanese e-commerce giant Rakuten Group has partnered with German defense startup Helsing to introduce AI-powered tactical unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force.
Under the arrangement, Rakuten will serve as Helsing’s local liaison, helping the Munich-based company navigate Japan’s domestic procurement systems, according to Japanese media.
Tokyo is already conducting field tests of Helsing’s flagship HX-2 strike drone, with trials scheduled through late September to assess the platform as Japan advances its defense modernization efforts.
‘Important Opportunity’
Sources said the collaboration marks one of Rakuten’s first moves into military hardware and could lay the groundwork for domestic mass production of the UAS.
Founded in 2021, Helsing develops AI software and autonomous aircraft designed to track and engage threats in signal-denied environments.
Backed by German government funding, the company supplies drones to Ukraine and recently raised $1.8 billion, elevating its valuation to $18 billion.
“Encouraging greater participation for startups in Japan’s defense industry presents an important opportunity to strengthen the country’s defense capabilities,” Chief of staff to Rakuten’s CEO Hideaki Mukai told Reuters in an interview.
“Rakuten hopes to help bridge these gaps by leveraging our experience and capabilities to connect startups and cutting-edge technologies with the needs of government agencies.”
The partnership comes as Japan eases arms export regulations and expands defense spending in response to growing regional security concerns.
