Japan wants to produce weapons systems for drones, as they have become increasingly important in the ongoing military operations in Ukraine and in the Middle East. And as early as August, the Japanese navy plans to test combat drones from four manufacturers, Bild reports.

It is planned that the drones, along with long-range cruise missiles, will complement the weapons of the units tasked with protecting Japan’s coastline. The government has said it is necessary to prepare for “new forms of warfare.”

By developing its own production, Japan also aims to end its dependence on Chinese components in the drone sector.