← (Geoinformatics)

Japan

Location. The items that name it, and who it appears alongside.

↓ (39 items)
Items
39
that name it
Named alongside
16
other entities
First seen
W15 ‘26
Latest
W45 ‘26

Named alongside

Top 12 by shared items
  1. 01Tokyo BayLocation/3
  2. 02KobeLocation/1
  3. 03MiyagiLocation/1
  4. 04Miyako StraitLocation/1
  5. 05Nagoya PortLocation/1
  6. 06Okinawa, JapanLocation/1
  7. 07OnomichiLocation/1
  8. 08Shiogama PortLocation/1
  9. 09TaiwanLocation/1
  10. 10TokyoLocation/1
  11. 11Torii StationLocation/1
  12. 12Toyama BayLocation/1

Items

Most relevant first · titles open the original ↗
01SOFREP2026-10-23

The Army Wants 100 Drone Boats for the Pacific After One Autonomous Ship Test (opens in a new tab)

The U.S. Army plans to develop a fleet of up to 100 autonomous drone boats for the Pacific, following a successful August 2026 test of an uncrewed commercial ship in Hawaii. The test involved an 18-hour autonomous voyage with a full crew onboard, demonstrating navigation and vehicle loading/unloading capabilities. The Army aims to retrofit existing vessels with autonomy kits while also building purpose-built uncrewed boats, though regulatory and logistical challenges remain. The initiative is part of a broader effort to expand watercraft capacity after years of fleet reductions.

02nippon.com2026-04-23

Taking the Lead in Autonomous Navigation: All-Japan Consortium Sailing Toward Crewless Maritime Shipping (opens in a new tab)

A Japanese consortium is developing autonomous maritime shipping technology to enable crewless vessels. The initiative aims to address labor shortages and improve efficiency in the shipping industry. Testing and development are underway, with a focus on leading global advancements in autonomous navigation. The project involves collaboration among major Japanese companies and research institutions.

03WorkBoat2026-11-03

Bulwark Dynamics raises $6.8 million, plans autonomous vessel production in Japan (opens in a new tab)

Bulwark Dynamics, a California-based autonomous vessel company, secured $6.8 million in seed funding to expand production and development. The company partnered with Japan’s Onomichi Dockyard to manufacture its Caravel autonomous landing craft, with plans to establish a dedicated production site in Japan. The Caravel is designed for unmanned cargo transport, capable of autonomous transit, beach landings, and offloading in GPS-denied environments. Bulwark aims to serve military logistics and civilian disaster relief, with 15', 35', and 55' variants in development.

04CPG Click Petróleo e Gás2026-04-27

Japan has just launched commercially the world's first level 4 autonomous container ship, a 134-meter vessel that navigates autonomously on regular routes and could change coastal logistics. (opens in a new tab)

Japan commercially launched the world's first Level 4 autonomous container ship, a 134-meter vessel operating on regular routes. The ship navigates without human intervention, marking a milestone in maritime autonomy. This development could transform coastal logistics by enabling fully autonomous cargo transport. The launch occurred on April 27, 2026.

05LM - Logistics Manager2026-04-27

“K” LINE RORO Vessel Passes Autonomous Ship Inspection in Japan - LM (opens in a new tab)

A Japanese RORO vessel operated by "K" LINE successfully passed an autonomous ship inspection. The inspection was conducted in Japan as part of advancing autonomous shipping technology. This milestone marks progress in the development and validation of self-navigating vessels. The event highlights the shipping industry's move toward automation.

06openalex2026-04-21Takefumi Higaki, Hitoshi Yoshioka, Nobukazu Wakabayashi, Hirotada HashimotoDOI ↗ (opens in a new tab)

Diffusion route planner: Data-driven modeling of human ship navigation that implicitly balances safety, efficiency, and rule compliance under complex geographical constraints (opens in a new tab)

The paper introduces a diffusion route planner (DRP) that models human ship navigation using 181 days of AIS–radar-integrated data from a training ship. In tests, the DRP followed COLREGs Rules 13–17 in one-on-one scenarios and maintained safety margins in complex, multi-ship real-sea conditions. Unlike other data-driven methods, it handled realistic constraints better due to offline training on fused sensor data. The approach also showed potential to incorporate additional rules and local regulations without explicit programming.

07IndexBox2026-04-08

Autonomous Ship Progress: Japan's Genbu & South Korea's HiNAS Gain Key Approvals - News and Statistics (opens in a new tab)

Japan’s autonomous ship system, Genbu, and South Korea’s HiNAS have received key regulatory approvals in 2026. These approvals mark significant progress in the development and deployment of autonomous maritime technology. Both systems are advancing toward operational use in commercial shipping. The article highlights recent milestones and related statistics in autonomous ship adoption.

08日本郵船株式会社2026-05-22

MEGURI2040 Fully Autonomous Ship Program Solving Social Issues by Developing World-leading Technologies (opens in a new tab)

The MEGURI2040 program, led by 日本郵船株式会社 (NYK Line), aims to develop fully autonomous ships using advanced technologies to address social challenges. The initiative focuses on creating world-leading innovations in maritime autonomy. The program is part of efforts to enhance safety, efficiency, and sustainability in shipping. No specific results or methods beyond the program's goals are detailed in the text.

09openalex2026-05-07Unho LeeDOI ↗ (opens in a new tab)

Navigating autonomy with human control (opens in a new tab)

The paper compares Japan and Korea’s regulatory approaches to maritime autonomous surface ships (MASS), focusing on human oversight and accountability. Japan uses evolving guidelines, like the 2025 MASS Safety Standards, to define roles for crews and remote operators in supervising autonomous systems. Korea’s 2023 MASS Act establishes a regulatory sandbox with exemptions for trials, requiring insurance and operational approvals. Both countries align with the IMO’s cautious, human-in-the-loop direction, emphasizing collaboration for safe global deployment.

10해사신문2026-11-03

South Korea leads international standards for autonomous ship 'eyes,' challenging Europe and Japan’s dominance (opens in a new tab)

South Korea is leading the development of international standards for the "eyes" of autonomous ships, challenging the dominance of Europe and Japan in this field. The country is actively shaping global guidelines for autonomous vessel technologies. This effort positions South Korea as a key player in maritime innovation. The initiative aims to establish new benchmarks for safety and efficiency in autonomous shipping.

11openalex2026-04-28Yoshiaki Kunieda, Akihiro Nunome, Emi Kanayama, Naruphun ChotechaungDOI ↗ (opens in a new tab)

Accident Prevention Based on Maritime Collision Cases in a Port: AI-based Measures to Prevent Ship Collision Accidents (opens in a new tab)

This study examines a 2022 ship collision in Nagoya Port caused by miscommunication via VHF radio and human error, particularly misunderstandings about vessel maneuvers at low speeds. It proposes a "digital passing agreement" system using AIS to convert verbal agreements into machine-readable data, displayed on navigation systems to improve clarity and compliance. The system detects deviations from agreed paths and integrates with Vessel Traffic Services for alerts and third-party input. The approach aims to reduce human error and improve situational awareness in port operations.

12The Maritime Executive2026-04-07

Japan and South Korea Advance Autonomous Navigation (opens in a new tab)

Japan and South Korea are progressing in autonomous navigation technology for maritime applications. Both countries are developing systems to enhance ship safety and operational efficiency. The advancements aim to reduce human error and improve navigation in challenging conditions. Collaborative efforts and regulatory frameworks are being established to support these innovations.

13Shipping Telegraph2026-09-03

Autonomous roro vessel wins green light from Japan (opens in a new tab)

Japan has approved the operation of an autonomous roll-on/roll-off (roro) vessel. The vessel, designed for cargo transport, marks a step forward in maritime automation. Regulatory clearance allows it to begin commercial service. This development reflects Japan’s push toward advanced shipping technologies.

14Ocean News & Technology2026-11-04

Ocius Technology Signs Contract to Verify Bluebottle USVs for Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (opens in a new tab)

Ocius Technology signed a contract to verify its Bluebottle uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) for Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). The solar, wind, and wave-powered USVs enhance maritime domain awareness with long-endurance, cost-effective surveillance above and below the ocean surface. The verification program strengthens collaboration between Australia and Japan on regional maritime security. The vessels will be built at Ocius Technology’s Sydney facility, following a $176 million Australian government investment in 2026 to expand Bluebottle production.

15AI Insider2026-09-09

Bulwark Dynamics Raises $6.8M in Seed Funding to Develop Autonomous Landing Craft, Inks Agreement to Build in Japan (opens in a new tab)

Bulwark Dynamics secured $6.8 million in seed funding to develop autonomous landing craft. The company also signed an agreement to manufacture these vessels in Japan. The funding and partnership aim to advance the production of uncrewed maritime systems. No further details on timelines or specific applications were provided.

16The Japan News2026-10-05

Japan Eyes Autonomous Transport Ships for SDF (opens in a new tab)

Japan plans to develop autonomous transport ships for its Self-Defense Forces (SDF) by the 2030s. The initiative aims to address crew shortages and enhance logistical efficiency. The government will invest in AI and remote-control technologies for unmanned vessel operations. Initial trials are expected to begin within the next few years.

17NavalToday2026-09-22

Japan's shipyard backs US startup building autonomous landing craft (opens in a new tab)

A Japanese shipyard is supporting a U.S. startup developing autonomous landing craft. The collaboration aims to advance unmanned maritime technology for military or logistical applications. No specific details on the shipyard or startup names, funding, or technical specifications were provided. The partnership was announced on September 22, 2026.

18해사신문2026-10-05

Japan’s Self-Defense Forces push for AI autonomous transport ships, aiming for unmanned operations long-term (opens in a new tab)

Japan’s Self-Defense Forces are advancing plans to introduce AI-powered autonomous transport ships. The initiative focuses on developing unmanned vessel operations as a long-term goal. The project aims to enhance logistical capabilities through automation. No specific timeline or technical details were provided in the report.

19연합뉴스2026-10-05

Japan to introduce AI autonomous ships for troop and civilian transport in emergencies, advancing unmanned capabilities (opens in a new tab)

Japan plans to introduce AI-powered autonomous ships by 2026 for transporting troops and civilians during emergencies. The initiative aims to advance unmanned maritime capabilities. These ships will operate without human crews, enhancing efficiency in crisis situations. The project reflects Japan’s push toward greater automation in defense and logistics.

20openalex2026-07-14Khairul Izzati bin Kamarumtham, Koji MuraiDOI ↗ (opens in a new tab)

Quantitative Gaze Similarity Analysis for Operation-based Maritime Studies: A Conceptual Approach (opens in a new tab)

This paper introduces a quantitative method for analyzing gaze similarity in maritime operations to assess perceptual performance and situational awareness. The approach eliminates subjective judgment, improving accuracy and reproducibility in experimental settings. An experiment using simulated remote ship operations demonstrated the method’s feasibility by analyzing fixation data from navigational scenarios. The results suggest it can complement existing frameworks for evaluating maritime professionals' perceptual skills.

21Maritime Fairtrade2026-04-04India Shipping News

ClassNK awards world’s first MASS notation to domestic container ship “Genbu” (opens in a new tab)

ClassNK granted the world’s first Maritime Autonomous Surface Ship (MASS) notation to the domestic container ship *"Genbu."* The notation certifies compliance with standards for autonomous ship operations. This milestone marks a first in the shipping industry for autonomous vessel classification. The achievement highlights advancements in maritime automation technology.

22note2026-11-06

$400 Million for the X-BAT Unmanned Fighter Before It Flies: Shield AI's Track Record (opens in a new tab)

Shield AI has secured $400 million in funding for its AI-piloted X-BAT unmanned fighter, which takes off and lands vertically without a runway. The first full-scale prototype was completed in November 2026, with flight tests scheduled by year-end, though the aircraft has not yet flown. The U.S. Navy and Shield AI are funding development in stages, targeting initial operational capability by 2029. The company’s smaller V-BAT drone is already in use by the U.S. Coast Guard, Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force, and Ukraine, supporting its credibility.

23台灣英文新聞2026-11-05

How Ukraine's unmanned boat experience can be referenced—DSET proposes trilateral cooperation direction (opens in a new tab)

The article discusses how Ukraine’s unmanned boat warfare experience could inform Taiwan’s asymmetric defense strategies, though direct application is limited due to differing sea conditions, communication challenges, and defense environments in the Taiwan Strait. The DSET report suggests trilateral cooperation (Taiwan-U.S.-Ukraine or Taiwan-Japan-Ukraine) to combine Taiwan’s manufacturing strengths with Ukraine’s software and combat expertise, while addressing export controls and intellectual property concerns. While Ukraine’s low-cost, high-impact unmanned boats have proven effective in the Black Sea, Taiwan’s harsher maritime conditions and lack of combat experience may reduce their immediate effectiveness. The report emphasizes the need for localized testing, modular development, and cost-benefit analysis before scaling procurement.

24缅华网2026-11-04

Japan Struggles to Recruit Submarine Crews, Turns to Equipping Unmanned Boats with Torpedoes; Miyako Strait May See Change (opens in a new tab)

Japan faces difficulties recruiting submarine crews, leading to plans to equip unmanned boats with torpedoes. This shift may alter dynamics in the Miyako Strait, a strategically important waterway. The shortage of personnel has prompted Japan to explore unmanned alternatives for naval operations. The development reflects broader challenges in maintaining traditional submarine forces.

25北海道新聞デジタル2026-11-03

Tsuneishi Solutions Tokyo Bay secures ClassNK technical certification for autonomous navigation technologies 'sMCS' and 'iRPS' (opens in a new tab)

Tsuneishi Solutions Tokyo Bay obtained ClassNK technical certification for its autonomous navigation technologies, "sMCS" and "iRPS." The certification confirms compliance with industry standards for these systems. The technologies aim to enhance ship navigation and operational safety. The announcement was made on November 3, 2026.

26沖縄タイムス社2026-10-30

Photo: Tsuneishi Solutions Tokyo Bay obtains ClassNK technical certification (TQ) for autonomous navigation technologies 'sMCS' and 'iRPS' (opens in a new tab)

Tsuneishi Solutions Tokyo Bay received ClassNK’s technical certification (TQ) for its autonomous navigation technologies, "sMCS" and "iRPS." The certification recognizes the systems' compliance with industry standards for maritime safety and performance. These technologies aim to enhance ship navigation through automation. The achievement was reported by Okinawa Times on October 30, 2026.

27ライブドアニュース2026-10-30

Tsuneishi Solutions Tokyo Bay obtains ClassNK technical certification (TQ) for autonomous navigation technologies 'sMCS' and 'iRPS' (published October 30, 2026) (opens in a new tab)

Tsuneishi Solutions Tokyo Bay received ClassNK’s technical certification (TQ) for its autonomous navigation technologies, "sMCS" and "iRPS," on October 30, 2026. The certification recognizes the technical reliability of these systems. "sMCS" and "iRPS" are designed to support autonomous ship operations. The news was reported by Livedoor News.

28河北新報オンライン2026-10-21

Japan Coast Guard's 2nd Regional Headquarters conducts operational training for unmanned boats to detect hazardous materials (opens in a new tab)

The Japan Coast Guard's 2nd Regional Headquarters conducted operational training for unmanned boats designed to detect hazardous materials. The exercise aimed to improve response capabilities for identifying dangerous substances in maritime environments. No specific outcomes or methods beyond the training itself were reported. The initiative reflects efforts to enhance safety and preparedness in coastal operations.

29NewsPicks2026-10-18

Why NYK's small shipyard and unmanned boat startup collaboration works without being 'Dejima' (opens in a new tab)

NYK Line’s collaboration with a small shipyard and an unmanned boat startup succeeds by avoiding a "Dejima" (isolated) approach. The partnership integrates diverse expertise without rigid separation, fostering innovation in autonomous vessel development. Unlike traditional siloed projects, this model encourages open exchange and flexibility. The initiative highlights how cross-industry cooperation can drive progress in maritime technology.

30Yahoo!ニュース2026-10-15

Japan Coast Guard Conducts Training in Miyagi's Shiogama Port Using Remote-Controlled Unmanned Boats to Detect Hazardous Substances (opens in a new tab)

The Japan Coast Guard conducted a training exercise in Miyagi Prefecture’s Shiogama Port on October 15, 2026. The drill involved using remote-controlled unmanned boats designed to detect hazardous substances in the water. The training aimed to enhance response capabilities for potential maritime threats. No specific outcomes or results were reported.

31QQ News2026-10-05

Could a Chinese unmanned boat neutralize Japan’s submarine ‘time difference’ tactics? (opens in a new tab)

A Chinese unmanned boat may counter Japan’s submarine "time difference" tactics, which exploit delays in detection and response. The article suggests the technology could disrupt Japan’s strategy by improving real-time surveillance and engagement. No specific technical details or outcomes are provided. The discussion focuses on potential strategic implications.

32Yahoo!ニュース2026-10-05

What aspects of the Self-Defense Forces’ research on autonomous ships are you most focused on? (opens in a new tab)

The article discusses Japan’s Self-Defense Forces' research on autonomous ships. Key focus areas include improving navigation safety, reducing human error, and enhancing operational efficiency. The development aims to integrate advanced technologies for unmanned or remotely controlled vessels. Public and expert opinions on priorities and challenges are also highlighted.

33読売新聞2026-10-05

Self-Defense Forces begin research on autonomous ships, with unmanned operations in mind for emergency transport and island evacuations (opens in a new tab)

The Japan Self-Defense Forces have started researching autonomous ships to enable unmanned operations. This initiative aims to support emergency transport and evacuations of island residents. The focus is on developing technology for reliable and efficient maritime operations. The project considers potential applications in crisis scenarios.

34乗りものニュース2026-10-05

Japanese mid-sized shipbuilder enters military market with 'groundbreaking unmanned boat,' partners with U.S. startup (1/2) (opens in a new tab)

A Japanese mid-sized shipbuilder is entering the military market with a new unmanned boat, described as "groundbreaking." The company is partnering with a U.S. startup to develop the technology. The move aims to meet emerging defense needs, though specific capabilities of the vessel are not detailed. The collaboration highlights growing interest in unmanned maritime systems for military applications.

35innovaTopia2026-10-05

Explanation: Japan Self-Defense Forces reported to adopt AI autonomous ships; Defense Ministry cites 'crew recruitment' as purpose (opens in a new tab)

Japan's Self-Defense Forces plan to adopt AI-powered autonomous ships, according to reports. The Defense Ministry stated the move aims to address challenges in recruiting crew members. The initiative reflects efforts to modernize naval operations amid personnel shortages. No specific timeline or technical details were provided in the report.

36Yahoo!ニュース2026-10-05

Japanese mid-sized shipbuilder enters military market with 'groundbreaking unmanned boat' in collaboration with US startup (opens in a new tab)

A Japanese mid-sized shipbuilder has entered the military market by developing a "groundbreaking unmanned boat" in partnership with a U.S. startup. The collaboration aims to meet emerging defense needs with this new technology. The project marks the company’s first venture into military applications. Details on the boat’s capabilities or specific use cases were not provided.

37搜狐网2026-09-29

Japan lists 52,000 unmanned equipment sets, aiming to rewrite near-sea rules with unmanned boats (opens in a new tab)

Japan has listed 52,000 sets of unmanned equipment, focusing on unmanned boats, to reshape near-sea operational rules. The initiative aims to enhance maritime capabilities and influence regional naval strategies. The move reflects Japan’s push to modernize its defense technology. No specific deployment timeline or technical details were provided.

38openalex2026-09-28Na-Yeon ParkDOI ↗ (opens in a new tab)

Digital Archiving Status and Utilization Strategies for Korean Maritime History Materials (opens in a new tab)

This study examines Korea’s fragmented maritime history archives, which are scattered across institutions and difficult to access. It proposes an integrated digital platform featuring unified search, AI-enhanced document access, and sensor-based data (e.g., underwater sonar, 3D imaging) to preserve and analyze maritime cultural heritage. The platform aims to boost research, public engagement, and K-content development while addressing gaps in systematic archiving. Recent advances in marine technology and digital humanities highlight the need for a centralized system to improve accessibility and global dissemination.

39openalex2026-10-08Yoshiaki Kunieda, Emi Kanayama, Ayano Oka, Mizuki SaitoDOI ↗ (opens in a new tab)

Creative Education Utilising a Newly Built Training Vessel: A Proposal for PBL Utilising the Marine Research Equipment on Board the Training Vessel Wakashio-maru (opens in a new tab)

The *Wakashio-maru*, a new training vessel for the National Institute of Technology, Toyama College, was completed in March 2026 and operates in Toyama Bay’s deep-sea areas. Equipped with advanced marine research instruments, it supports hands-on education where students collect and analyze real-world data on water quality, ocean currents, and marine life. The vessel facilitates project-based learning (PBL) focused on regional challenges like marine conservation, fisheries sustainability, and coastal community issues. This approach aims to develop students’ problem-solving skills, creativity, and ability to generate innovative solutions using inquiry-based methods.

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