14:40Machine-translated from Azerbaijani by AIRead in Azerbaijani
Japan to Buy Terra B1 Rocket-Powered Interceptor Drones in Bulk
Japan’s Self-Defense Forces will buy rocket-powered, 3D-printed Terra B1 interceptor drones in bulk. The contract between Japan’s Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency and Terra Drone has been approved. The decision was made following successful tests. A demonstration conducted for the Maritime Self-Defense Force also played an important role in the system’s selection.
The Terra B1 is designed to neutralize in midair drones that do not return after attacking their targets. Potential targets include Shahed-type drones and IAI Harpy munitions that loiter in the air to strike radars. The interceptor is manufactured in Japan using 3D printers. This method should allow the Self-Defense Forces to obtain counter-drone equipment more quickly. The Terra B1 was selected from various solutions submitted by 38 companies. The assessment considered the system’s engagement and flight ranges, endurance, and maximum and cruising speeds. The drone’s guidance, the number of units that could be controlled simultaneously, and its launch and recovery capabilities were also tested. Compatibility with other systems, safety, and results demonstrated during real-world use were also among the selection criteria.
The first Terra B1 drones are expected to roll off the production line in Japan this month. The model was developed on the basis of Terra Drone’s proven A1 aircraft. The A1 began to be used in Ukraine in early 2026. If its initial deployment by the maritime forces produces successful results, the Air and Ground Self-Defense Forces may also adapt the interceptor to their needs. Such systems are considered an alternative to more expensive air-defense missiles. For example, shooting down inexpensive attack drones one by one with Patriot missiles is costly. Moreover, supplies of these missiles are limited. During a mass attack, using 1 missile per drone is not a sustainable long-term solution. Japan is therefore opting for less expensive interceptors that can be produced quickly.
The Terra B1 is designed to neutralize in midair drones that do not return after attacking their targets. Potential targets include Shahed-type drones and IAI Harpy munitions that loiter in the air to strike radars. The interceptor is manufactured in Japan using 3D printers. This method should allow the Self-Defense Forces to obtain counter-drone equipment more quickly. The Terra B1 was selected from various solutions submitted by 38 companies. The assessment considered the system’s engagement and flight ranges, endurance, and maximum and cruising speeds. The drone’s guidance, the number of units that could be controlled simultaneously, and its launch and recovery capabilities were also tested. Compatibility with other systems, safety, and results demonstrated during real-world use were also among the selection criteria. The first Terra B1 drones are expected to roll off the production line in Japan this month. The model was developed on the basis of Terra Drone’s proven A1 aircraft. The A1 began to be used in Ukraine in early 2026. If its initial deployment by the maritime forces produces successful results, the Air and Ground Self-Defense Forces may also adapt the interceptor to their needs. Such systems are considered an alternative to more expensive air-defense missiles. For example, shooting down inexpensive attack drones one by one with Patriot missiles is costly. Moreover, supplies of these missiles are limited. During a mass attack, using 1 missile per drone is not a sustainable long-term solution. Japan is therefore opting for less expensive interceptors that can be produced quickly.