Japan builds budget drone based on Ukraine battlefield experience
Photo: Japanese ACM-01 Shiraha drone (JISDA)
Japan has unveiled a new ultra-low-cost drone, the ACM-01 Shiraha. The design draws on lessons learned from three to four years of Russia's full-scale war against Ukraine, according to Defence Blog.
This aircraft has a wooden fuselage, and the drone costs just $450 per unit. At the same time, the drone has a wingspan of 1.9 meters.
The developers opted against using expensive materials, as the main goal is mass production. All components and systems of the drone are manufactured exclusively in Japan. This ensures independence from foreign suppliers and production stability.
The startup presented the new product as a training platform. It is designed for intensive use. If the drone crashes, it can be replaced immediately without impacting the military budget.
In recent years, Japanese engineers have studied the fighting in Ukraine, analyzing logistics and the rate of equipment losses on the front lines. Their conclusion was simple and logical: modern warfare requires thousands of inexpensive drones.
The Shiraha's design allows for:
- Quick replacement of damaged parts
- Scaling up production to thousands of units per month
- Adding combat equipment as needed.
Although the base version is designed for training, it has potential. The drone can be equipped with improved communication systems. There is also the possibility of increasing its flight range. Such modifications will make the drone more expensive but will transform it into a fully-fledged combat unit.
Skill House: a new pilot training system
The startup offers more than just hardware. They have created the Skill House package. This is a comprehensive program for military units. It includes spare drones for quick replacement, professional repair services, and an intensive training course for operators.
This approach removes a psychological barrier, as pilots are not afraid of losing expensive equipment. They practice complex maneuvers in real-world conditions, which is critical for preparing for modern conflicts.
Latest news on Ukrainian drones
Ukraine is interested in signing the Drone Deal with Italy as soon as possible, President Zelenskyy stated during a meeting with Prime Minister Meloni. Ukraine is offering Italy military expertise and defense capabilities regarding drones, missiles, and electronic warfare systems.
Meanwhile, the Ukrainian Armed Forces carried out a precision drone strike on a Russian fuel convoy near Luhansk. The strike destroyed tankers carrying petroleum products and significantly damaged the railway infrastructure that the Russians used to supply resources to the front lines.
And the Magyar' Birds struck 16 key Russian targets. Among them were Iskander ballistic missile systems, air defense facilities, and an oil refinery in Tuapse.
