Unmanned Diving Machine program (Japan)

[Grey Havoc]

Not much in the way of details yet. Apparently in the same class as the USN's XLUUV program, though requirements haven't been nailed down yet. Presumably will be operated by the MSDF, that is, if it ever manages to emerge from the unholy mess that is the Acquisition Technology and Logistics Agency.

https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2018/11/05/national/defense-ministry-develop-large-underwater-drone-monitor-remote-islands-government
https://thediplomat.com/2018/11/japan-plans-large-unmanned-submersibles/

 

[Ares]

According to the Japanese article, it will have more than 10 meters in length.

 

[Grey Havoc]

Japan government eyes autonomous probe capable of diving 7,000 meters

The government is planning to develop an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) capable of exploring the seabed at depths of up to 7,000 meters, it has been learned. Such a vehicle would be able to conduct deep-sea probes in 98% of Japan’s exclusive economic zone, facilitating significant progress...

japannews.yomiuri.co.jp

 

[Grey Havoc]

On something of a tangent:

Underwater Drones to Be Tested in Japan from June; Govt Aims to Promote Domestic AUV Manufacturing

<p>The government will start in June demonstration tests for the practical use of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), which can automatically navigate underwater, according to sources.</p>

japannews.yomiuri.co.jp