The Defense Ministry is actively searching for technologies developed by small and medium-size domestic firms to use in equipment for the Self-Defense Forces, according to ministry documents obtained by Kyodo News.
The ministry has traditionally looked to major manufacturers for domestically produced SDF equipment. But now it is looking for innovation from smaller firms, including creating textiles for protective gear. The move is aimed in part at preventing the leak of expertise to countries like the United States and China, both of which are interested in acquiring Japanese technology for military use.
The Defense Ministry held an exhibition last December in Tokyo of small and medium-size companies' products with potential military applications, according to the ministry document. Around 10 companies exhibited products like 3-D printers and highly sensitive cameras at the event attended by senior ministry personnel and officials in charge of equipment procurement, it said.