To balance reliance on foreign tech, Japan is evaluating Japanese-made AI, including Sakana Fugu from Tokyo-based Sakana AI K.K., which could act as a command hub coordinating multiple AI systems.

Experts warn that international AI-rulemaking is lagging, requiring careful public and expert debate before any rollout to address safety, accountability, and ethical concerns.

A leading option is Palantir Technologies’ Maven Smart System, capable of aggregating vast classified data from satellites and reconnaissance aircraft, and reportedly used by the U.S. military in operations against Iran.

The plan envisions using both foreign and domestic AI systems to avoid over-reliance on any one country, with attention to risks such as mistaken strikes and accountability gaps.

Sakana Fugu would allocate tasks like analysis and evaluation to appropriate AI systems, while protecting classified information and promoting domestic industry involvement.

Officials acknowledge AI’s limitations in unprecedented scenarios and stress the need for appropriate human involvement in decision-making as AI use expands.

Japan’s Defense Ministry is examining introducing U.S.-developed AI into command and control for Self-Defense Forces units to speed battlefield analysis, target assessment, and orders.