Japanese Companies Pivot from Wearables to Military Tech

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Japanese Companies Pivot from Wearables to Military Tech

Mitsufuji, originally a weaver of decorative belts for traditional kimonos, is now exploring the possibility of producing high-tech fibers for military use to protect fighter jets from electromagnetic interference. This shift in focus comes as Japan aims to strengthen its defense industry through dual-use technologies, part of a multi-billion dollar military build-up to address security concerns from China, Russia, and North Korea.

Unlike countries with established defense industry giants like the U.S. and Britain, Japan lacks companies heavily reliant on military contracts for revenue. This has prompted the Japanese Self-Defense Forces to seek partnerships with smaller firms, such as Mitsufuji, to diversify procurement sources and embrace innovation in modern warfare tactics. The government, recognizing the need for research and development in national security, has been actively engaging with companies to identify potential products and technologies that could benefit the military.