Boeing proposes MQ-28 Ghost Bat drones for Japan defense

Boeing has proposed introducing its MQ-28 Ghost Bat unmanned combat aircraft to Japan’s defense arsenal. The proposal aims to support Japan’s “SHIELD” unmanned defense initiative, which seeks to create a synchronized maritime defense network using aerial, surface, and underwater systems.

The MQ-28 Ghost Bat is designed for collaborative combat, acting as a “wingman” to manned fighter jets. It utilizes AI-driven decision-making and real-time data sharing to extend the reach and situational awareness of crewed aircraft without increasing human risk. The aircraft features a stealthy design, a modular nose for rapid mission reconfiguration, and a combat range exceeding 3,700 kilometers.

Japan’s Ministry of Defense has allocated approximately 100.1 billion yen in its 2026 fiscal year budget for unmanned defense capabilities, with substantial deployment planned for fiscal year 2027. The integration of the Ghost Bat is expected to enhance interoperability between the military forces of the United States, Japan, and Australia in the Indo-Pacific region.