German drone maker Helsing seeks Japanese military partnership with Rakuten support

Monday 17 August 2026 - 09:27

By: Sahili Aya

German drone maker Helsing seeks Japanese military partnership with Rakuten support

German defence technology company Helsing is moving closer to expanding its presence in Japan’s military sector, with support from Japanese technology and finance group Rakuten as a local partner in negotiations for a potential drone supply agreement.

The partnership comes as Japan accelerates efforts to modernise its defence capabilities and strengthen its security infrastructure amid growing regional tensions.

Japan tests Helsing’s advanced strike drone

The Japanese Ground Self-Defense Forces are currently evaluating Helsing’s HX-2 strike drone, an unmanned aerial system designed for military operations.

Testing of the drone is expected to continue until the end of September, as Tokyo examines new technologies that could enhance surveillance, operational flexibility and battlefield capabilities.

The trials are part of Japan’s broader push to incorporate advanced defence technologies while responding to an increasingly complex security environment in East Asia.

Rakuten steps into defence technology negotiations

Rakuten, widely known for its e-commerce and financial services businesses, has taken on the role of local partner to help facilitate discussions between Helsing and Japanese authorities.

According to company representatives, Rakuten’s involvement is aimed at supporting the final stages of a potential agreement for the deployment of Helsing’s unmanned systems in Japan.

The German company previously announced an initial agreement that would allow the Japanese government to use its technology, with the support of an unnamed local intermediary.

Growing international interest in Japan’s defence market

Japan’s rising defence spending has attracted increasing attention from foreign technology companies seeking opportunities in one of Asia’s most active military modernisation markets.

The country has been investing in new-generation equipment, including drones, artificial intelligence systems and other advanced platforms, as it seeks to strengthen its capabilities.

For European defence startups such as Helsing, Japan represents a strategic market where demand for innovative technologies is growing rapidly.

Security concerns drive technological transformation

Japan’s military planning has increasingly focused on adapting to changing regional dynamics, particularly concerns linked to China’s expanding military activities.

The development and acquisition of unmanned systems have become a key priority for many countries, offering new operational possibilities while reducing risks for personnel.

The potential Helsing-Rakuten partnership reflects a broader trend of cooperation between technology companies and defence organisations as governments seek faster access to emerging military solutions.