Japanese Ministry of Defense Allocates Funding for Universal Gun System
The Japanese Ministry of Defense has allocated funding for the development of a universal 155mm gun system designed to combat attack drones. This initiative aims to enhance Japan’s layered air defense capabilities as the country rethinks the direction of its air defense systems.
The decision stems from detailed studies of the war in Ukraine, leading the Ministry of Defense of Japan to conclude that it needs weapons to intercept mass raids of attack drones. The new 155mm gun module is expected to provide Japan with a modern means to detect and effectively defeat small-sized air targets.
One of the main criteria for this development is the low cost of firing, which should be less than that of missile surface-to-air missiles (SAMs). This cost efficiency will allow Japan to create sufficient reserves of shells equipped with radio detectors.
The main challenge in the development is creating algorithms for the effective destruction of drones at both long ranges and short distances, specifically from 5 to 15 kilometers. As part of the project, the universal 155mm gun will be installed in an unmanned module, which will also feature an optical detection station and an automatic loading system.
The platform intended for the module will be a lightweight chassis based on the Type 89 infantry fighting vehicle. This chassis has also been used as the basis for developing the Type 99 155mm self-propelled gun.
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Currently, Japan has a limited number of anti-aircraft guns, namely the Type 87 systems with two 35mm automatic guns. These systems are employed solely by the 7th Anti-Aircraft Missile Regiment of the Northern Army to defend the Hokkaido base.
Previously, it was reported that the Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA) would collaborate with European companies from France and Germany to develop railguns. The primary focus of this development is to create a system for future use on the sea platforms of the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Forces.
The official document regarding this funding allocation was published on the Ministry of Defense of Japan’s website.
