Key Facts
• On October 22, a contract was signed for joint testing of domestic maritime drones.
• Participants include startup Oceanic Constellations (OC) and NYK Group’s Keihin Dock.
• OC successfully tested its prototype ‘Alpha’ in August 2025 off Kamakura.
• Keihin Dock specializes in small vessels and built the world’s first ammonia-fueled ship.
• The new prototype ‘Beta’ is set for completion in November 2025.
• Mass production of the ‘Gamma’ model will begin at a rate of 10 units per month.
• The project aims to address illegal fishing, smuggling, and maritime security.
• Japan’s advanced shipbuilding technology will be leveraged for this initiative.
• The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) is interested due to security concerns.
• China’s maritime expansion and Japan’s labor shortages highlight the project’s importance.
Summary
Japan is advancing the mass production of domestic maritime drones through a partnership between startup Oceanic Constellations and NYK Group’s Keihin Dock. This pioneering initiative leverages Japan’s high-quality shipbuilding expertise to address illegal fishing, maritime security, and ocean development. The project includes the development of prototypes ‘Beta’ and ‘Gamma,’ with production scaling to 10 units monthly. The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force has shown interest, given China’s increasing maritime activities and Japan’s labor shortages. This effort not only strengthens national security but also revitalizes Japan’s shipbuilding industry, positioning the country as a leader in maritime drone technology.
