Asian-Style Drone Wall: Japan Develops SHIELD Coastal Defense System

Japan’s Ministry of Defense has announced the development of SHIELD (Synchronized, Hybrid, Integrated and Enhanced Littoral Defense), a layered coastal defense system.

Funding for the project is included in the 2026 defense budget.

The system is designed to integrate and control drones of various types across the three branches of the Self-Defense Forces, creating a unified guidance network.

With the rising cost of manned systems and China and North Korea building large arsenals of strike drones, Japan is seeking to expand the use of cheaper unmanned systems, including aerial platforms, surface vessels, and underwater vehicles.

The system aims to provide asymmetric and multilayered defense, a priority for Japan as tensions with China grow. Development is estimated at $860 million, with deployment to the Self-Defense Forces expected as early as 2027.

The Ground Self-Defense Forces will receive new aerial drones, including FPV models and quadcopters for reconnaissance. In addition, three types of small attack drones are planned: Type-1, Type-2, and Type-3.

• Type-1 is designed for short-range strikes on equipment and other targets.
• Type-2 will have an extended range and be used against enemy fortifications and landing ships.
• Type-3 will be capable of long-range strikes of up to 100 km against ground and surface targets.

The Maritime and Air Self-Defense Forces will also receive significant numbers of unmanned systems.

The Navy is set to acquire two types of drones: ship-launched UAVs for strikes on surface targets, and small reconnaissance boats able to conduct surveillance and carry out attacks.

The Air Force will focus on strike drones, including long-range anti-ship UAVs and interceptor drones.
The interceptors will be deployed near radar stations to protect air defense assets and repel enemy drone attacks.

Militarnyi previously reported that Japan’s 2026 defense budget also includes funding for MPMS Kai, a new long-range multipurpose missile system.

The system is designed to enhance the Self-Defense Forces’ anti-ship capabilities, targeting landing craft and other vessels, as well as armored vehicles, at ranges of 20-30 km.