Rakuten partners with German startup Helsing for Japanese military drones

Rakuten Group has partnered with German defense AI startup Helsing SE to facilitate the introduction of military unmanned systems to the Japanese market. Rakuten will serve as the primary point of contact to help the Munich-based firm navigate Japan’s complex defense procurement processes and connect with government agencies.

The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force is currently conducting field tests of Helsing’s HX-2 strike drone, with testing expected to continue through the end of September. The HX-2 is an AI-powered attack drone capable of identifying targets without continuous data connectivity. Depending on the results of these trials, the parties may consider future mass production within Japan.

This collaboration comes as Japan increases its defense spending and eases arms-export rules to modernize its military capabilities. While Rakuten has limited experience in the defense sector, the company aims to bridge the gap between international startups and the Japanese government to drive innovation in the country’s defense industry.