Japan’s Defence Minister Gen Nakatani arrived in Turkey on Tuesday for talks aimed at strengthening defence cooperation, including the potential acquisition of Turkish-made drones, diplomatic sources said.
Nakatani is the first Japanese defence minister to make an official visit to Turkey, a NATO member seeking to expand its economic and strategic ties beyond Europe and the Middle East. Both countries are allies of the United States.
During his visit, Nakatani will meet with Turkish Defence Minister Yasar Guler to discuss ways to enhance collaboration on defence equipment and technology, exchange views on regional security developments, and increase contacts between the Turkish Armed Forces and Japan’s Self-Defense Forces at the unit level.
The Japanese minister is also scheduled to tour key Turkish defence facilities, including Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAS), naval shipyards, and drone manufacturer Baykar.
Turkey-backed firms have exported drones to several countries, including Ukraine, while Japan seeks to expand unmanned aerial vehicle capabilities across its ground, air, and naval forces. Turkish drones are reportedly among the options being considered.
Despite both countries condemning Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Turkey has maintained diplomatic ties with Moscow and has not joined Western economic sanctions.
Nakatani’s visit, part of a regional tour from August 17–22, will also include stops in Djibouti and Jordan. Turkish and Japanese defence ministries have not immediately responded to requests for comment.
Written By Rodney Mbua
