Airbus signs Memorandum of Understanding to explore Japanese anti-submarine variant of the Eurodrone
Tokyo, Japan, 26 June 2026 – Airbus has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Kawasaki Heavy Industries to explore the development of a Japanese variant of the U950 Eurodrone, specifically designed for anti-submarine warfare. This initiative signifies a deepening of Japan’s involvement in Europe’s first Large Long Endurance Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS), having held observer status in the Eurodrone programme since 2023.
The Eurodrone presents a strategic advantage for nations like Japan that require extensive maritime surveillance capabilities. With its exceptional flight endurance and substantial payload capacity, the Eurodrone is equipped to carry critical anti-submarine warfare assets such as sonobuoys and torpedoes. By integrating this uncrewed platform into its existing fleet, Japan aims to enhance its maritime security operations efficiently and sustainably.
AIRBUS will collaborate with Kawasaki Heavy Industries to delineate avenues for designing, developing, and commercializing this specialized Japanese maritime version of the Eurodrone. Discussions will aim to define potential configurations, integrate Japanese-specific sensors and effectors, and establish collaborative roles for Japanese industries throughout the production and sustainment phases. The intention is to ensure that Japan can operate the Eurodrone independently and without constraints in the event of procurement.
This focused collaboration is expected to strengthen the Eurodrone programme while enhancing the strategic alignment of European and Japanese defense efforts. Insights garnered from the development of Japan’s specific variant are anticipated to yield significant operational benefits for future European naval applications of the Eurodrone.
Eurodrone: Versatile and Capable
The Eurodrone programme is a collaborative effort involving Germany, France, Italy, and Spain, with oversight by the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR). Currently under development, the Eurodrone is slated for its maiden flight in 2029. India is also an observer in the project. This unmanned system is designed to undertake a variety of missions, including airborne intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, reconnaissance, early warning, signals intelligence, maritime patrol, and anti-submarine warfare. With a mission payload capability of up to 2.3 tonnes (excluding fuel) and an impressive endurance of up to 40 hours, the Eurodrone will be fully compatible with civil airspace and equipped with high levels of safety and redundancy, making it particularly suited for operations over open seas.
Source: Airbus Defence and Space (2026-06-26)
