Helsing and Rakuten pursue Japanese military drone trials

GermanyJapan

First seen: Aug 19, 2026, 3:32 PM UTCUpdated: Aug 19, 2026, 9:32 PM UTC

WHAT HAPPENED

German drone maker Helsing is working with Japan’s Rakuten to bring AI-powered military drones into Japanese military trials. The partnership is described as an effort to broker a deal in Japan’s defense market.

SO WHAT?

The move could deepen Germany–Japan defense-industry cooperation and expand the use of AI-enabled military systems in Japan.

FOR ME

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COVERAGE

Reports behind this event

techradar.comen

Rakuten quietly steps into Japan's defence market as Helsing brings its deadly AI-powered drones into military trials

Aug 19, 2026, 9:32 PM UTC

defensenews.comen

German drone maker Helsing enlists Rakuten to broker Japan military deal

Aug 19, 2026, 9:17 PM UTC

wwwhatsnew.comes

Helsing y Rakuten llevan los drones militares IA de Alemania al ejército japonés

Aug 19, 2026, 3:32 PM UTC