Japan is now discussing the possibility of purchasing the K-RACER drone from Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI) in order to assist with military logistics operations.
Following a successful 2024 demonstration in which the drone loaded and unloaded cargo autonomously, the military expressed interest, according to a business spokeswoman speaking to the Australian Defence Magazine.
Since then, it is said that KHI has had several talks with the Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency and different divisions of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF).
The K-RACER is a rotorcraft-style drone that can transport up to 100 kg (220 lb) of payload at altitudes of up to 3,000 m (9,842 ft), making it ideal for use in Japan’s mountainous regions.
It has the same 998cc four-cylinder Kawasaki Ninja H2R engine that powers Kawasaki’s high-performance motorcycles.
In order to fit inside regular 20- or 40-foot (6- and 12-meter) shipping containers, it also has a seven-meter (23-foot) airframe with a foldable tail.
