Japan Global Hawk surveillance drone lost at sea off Tottori coast

The Japan Air Self-Defense Force (ASDF) has lost contact with an RQ-4B Global Hawk unmanned reconnaissance aircraft. The drone, which is stationed at Misawa Air Base in Aomori Prefecture, disappeared from radar on September 15 at approximately 1:00 PM while flying over international waters about 50 kilometers north of Tottori Prefecture.

Debris believed to be from the aircraft was discovered floating in the sea by the Japan Coast Guard. Some reports suggest the lost aircraft may have been the first Global Hawk unit (serial 23-6003) received by the ASDF in 2022. The mission's specific objectives have not been disclosed, though the aircraft is used for high-altitude, long-endurance surveillance of the Asian mainland.

Search and rescue operations are underway involving ASDF aircraft, including F-15Js and U-125As, as well as Maritime Self-Defense Force vessels. While the loss of the approximately $110 million aircraft represents a significant technological and intelligence setback, authorities have confirmed no damage or casualties have been reported on land in Tottori Prefecture.