Shifts in U.S. Defense Models and the Future of Japan's Defense Industry

Seminar on U.S. Defense Model Transition and Japan's Future

On March 23, 2026, Daisuke Imaizumi, CEO of Infracommons, will host an insightful seminar titled "Shifts in U.S. Defense Models and the Future of Japan's Defense Industry." This event aims to analyze the profound transitions occurring within U.S. military strategies and their implications for Japan's defense landscape.

Seminar Overview

American defense strategy is increasingly evolving towards a model termed "Software Defined Warfare," incorporating elements such as AI, autonomous drones, and real-time command & control systems. The seminar will clarify the latest developments in U.S. military strategy, exploring initiatives like the Replicator Concept, JADC2, and the rise of significant players like Palantir and Anduril. Furthermore, it will delve into the essential structural transformations facing the Japanese defense industry.

Imaizumi plans to articulate how Japanese firms like Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Fujitsu, and NEC can evolve into vital partners in U.S.-Japan defense collaborations. This practical viewpoint will provide attendees with tactical strategies to thrive in an era dominated by AI and software, framing existing industries as co-creative partners rather than adversaries. This seminar is a must-attend for those seeking to understand the shifting future of the defense sector.

Key Ingredients in the Seminar

Part 1: Software Defined Warfare

Exploration of how U.S. Department of Defense’s AI initiatives are reshaping military capabilities and the challenges faced by Japan's defense sector.

1. Paradigm Shift Overview: Understanding what Software Defined Warfare entails.
- Transitioning from the "Kill Chain" to the "Kill Web.
- Detailed comparison of old and new defense industry models.

2. Policies, Strategies, and Threat Awareness:
- Acknowledging risks posed by China and understanding the Offset-X strategy.
- Examination of the U.S. Department of Defense's software modernization strategy (2022) and its implementation.
- Insights into JADC2: The future neural network of warfare.

3. Mechanisms of Transformation: Specific initiatives and new concepts.
- The Replicator Initiative: Mass production of autonomous systems.
- Mission Engineering versus System Engineering.

4. The Rise of Disruptive New Primes and Business Models:
- Anduril Industries: A "Product-First" approach.
- Palantir Technologies: The backbone of data management.

5. Key Figures and Important Literature in Military Thought:
- Contributions of Christian Brose, Eric Schmidt, and Kathleen Hicks in shaping military doctrine and defensive strategies.

6. Threats to Japan’s Defense Industries and their Consequences: Analyzing potential risks and future landscape changes.

Part 2: Entry of Defense AI Tech Giants Anduril and Palantir into Japan

Investigating where opportunities lie for Japan's defense firms.

1. Formation of Anduril’s Japanese Branch and Domestic Drone Project:
- The Kizuna Drone initiative aimed at reducing dependence on China.
- Strategic collaboration potential with Japan and engagement with traditional major players.
- Anduril Japan's focus areas and proposals to the Self-Defense Forces.
- The shock of the "Software-First" revolution: A critical turning point for the defense industry.

2. Current Landscape of Palantir in Japan: Transformation capabilities for Japan's Ministry of Defense and Self-Defense Forces with Palantir.
- Accelerating Kill Chain processes and enhancing battlefield awareness.
- Implications for organizational structure and personnel, including the establishment of digital units.
- Security and procurement considerations.
- The ripple effect on Japanese businesses generating new opportunities.

3. Opportunities and Changes in the Defense Industry Arising from U.S. Collaboration.

The seminar will include a Q&A session, providing ample opportunity for participants to engage.

Contact Information

New Society System Comprehensive Research Institute
2-6-2 Nishishinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 4F Zaimax Nishishinbashi Building
Email: [email protected]
TEL: 03-5532-8850
FAX: 03-5532-8851
Website: SSK21

About New Society System Comprehensive Research Institute (SSK)

Founded on December 6, 1996, SSK has organized around 500 business seminars annually for over 28 years, providing information services primarily focused on corporate clients. Our aim is to promptly deliver high-level strategic, marketing, and technological information to foster business opportunities. Through diverse services tied to our seminar work, we continuously strive to be a valuable strategic partner, offering the latest in industry information to support our clients' growth and success.