Japanese technology plays a crucial role in Russian weaponry, with significant components sourced from Japan being repurposed for military use.
Photo : AP
Dozens of Russian intelligence operatives expelled from Western capitals after the start of the war in Ukraine have relocated to Japan, where they are seeking sensitive technology for Moscow’s military, according to current and former Western intelligence officials cited by The New York Times. The officials told the newspaper that Russia shifted operatives to Japan after mass expulsions across Europe and North America made it harder for the Kremlin to gather intelligence and obtain high-tech components with military applications.
According to the report, Japan’s advanced technology sector and comparatively limited counter-intelligence capabilities have made it an increasingly important target for Russian espionage.
Technology ‘Critical’ to Russia’s War
Ukrainian officials say around 90% of Russian missiles and drones contain Japanese-made components that are used in attacks on Ukrainian cities and military positions.
The intelligence officials told The New York Times that Russia’s continued access to technology developed in Western countries and available in Japan has helped sustain its full-scale invasion of Ukraine despite international export restrictions.
Many of the components are sold for civilian purposes but can also be adapted for military use, making them more difficult to regulate.
According to the report, a Russian military intelligence unit known as the 20th Directorate has been operating from Tokyo. The operatives, reportedly posing as businessmen or diplomats, are said to have attempted to negotiate commercial deals or acquire technology for transfer to Russia for military use.
Officials told the newspaper that the head of the unit was operating under the cover of an employee of Aeroflot, Russia’s national airline. Soviet and Russian intelligence services have historically used the airline as cover for intelligence officers.
The report said Ukrainian officials had presented Japanese authorities with documents and interviews which they said showed Japanese technology was being used in Russian weapons systems.
Japan’s Response
According to The New York Times, Tokyo has been slow to respond to the allegations. Japanese officials told the newspaper they were aware of the threat and were strengthening intelligence-gathering efforts. The government also said it was working with Western allies to prevent the export of military-related goods to Russia.
Japan has long been described by security experts as a “spy paradise” because it lacks a dedicated foreign intelligence service and has traditionally relied heavily on intelligence provided by the United States.
However, reforms are under way.
Japan has passed legislation establishing a National Intelligence Council and a National Intelligence Bureau, and plans to introduce an anti-espionage law later in 2026 aimed at strengthening counter-intelligence capabilities.
Security Concerns
The reported Russian intelligence activity is likely to heighten concerns over Japan’s involvement in sensitive defence projects, including the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), a joint sixth-generation fighter jet project with the UK and Italy.
The programme, announced earlier this month, is expected to produce a next-generation stealth fighter scheduled to enter service in 2035.
