Mitsubishi Heavy partners with Preferred Networks to build Japan-based defence AI
Japan's leading defence-industry company Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has signed a partnership with local technology firm Preferred Networks to build defence-oriented artificial-intelligence models trained domestically. According to Nikkei Asia, the project is positioned as part of Japan's 'AI sovereignty' agenda.
Nikkei Asia · Staff WriterMitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), Japan's leading defence-industry company, has said it will work with domestic technology firm Preferred Networks to build defence-oriented artificial-intelligence models developed and trained inside Japan. According to Nikkei Asia, the project is framed as part of Japan's drive to reduce reliance on foreign models in strategic infrastructure.
In the first phase the partners will use MHI's sensor data, simulation infrastructure and proprietary training streams to develop mission-planning and situational-awareness modules. Preferred Networks' joint research with the University of Tokyo and Riken will also feed into the training pipeline. The work is being read as the first concrete step toward a dual-use civil-military AI stack.
Nikkei Asia reported that the project will be integrated into the Japan Ministry of Defence's road map for 'AI-enabled defence systems'. Former Vice Minister for Defence Tomohisa Takei said in a comment that 'AI built on domestic data is critical to strategic independence'. Discussions over allied-supply-chain configurations and export controls are among the factors that will shape the pace of the project going forward.
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