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SINGAPORE—Japan’s Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Agency (ATLA) says it is seeing a roughly 50% increase in interest and engagement from foreign customers for Japanese defense solutions in the 2026 edition of the Singapore Airshow compared with 2024, with demand particularly strong from Southeast Asian governments.
ATLA, which serves as both Japan’s defense acquisition authority and its export promotion agency, is making one of its largest-ever appearances at the Singapore Airshow. The expanded presence follows Japan’s gradual easing of post-World War II defense export restrictions in recent years.
Fukawa Hideki, ATLA’s councilor for defense equipment cooperation, told Aviation Week that the agency is promoting a broad portfolio of capabilities, including space systems, uncrewed aircraft and advanced materials—an area where Japan has longstanding technical strengths.
“We are seeing many Southeast Asian countries looking to build up their own defense industrial base, and we are offering components and technologies that can support their future systems,” Fukawa said. He added that many of the technologies being discussed are dual-use in nature, providing cost-effective options for budget-constrained militaries.
The Japanese delegation includes established defense primes such as IHI and Mitsubishi Electric, as well as startups like AirKamuy, which is showcasing cardboard-based uncrewed aircraft “solutions.” ATLA says all technologies on display are either already in service within Japan’s defense ecosystem or are in the process of being inducted.
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