Rakuten partners with Brave1 to help Ukrainian defence tech startups enter the Japanese market

The Ukrainian defence technology cluster Brave1 and Japanese tech giant Rakuten have announced a cooperation initiative aimed at promoting Ukrainian defence innovations in Japan. The first stage of this collaboration will involve the participation of a Ukrainian delegation in the DSEI Japan defence and security exhibition, to be held from 21 to 23 May. Future plans include potential partnerships with the Japanese government and other stakeholders.

The following Ukrainian defence start-ups will be showcased at DSEI Japan:

• Dwarf Engineering LLC – specialises in robust software and hardware for combat drones;
• Farsight Vision LLC – develops AI-based software solutions for geospatial intelligence;
• Griselda – a real-time situational awareness platform;
• LifesaverSIM – a gamified training tool for emergency service personnel;
• Skyfall Industries LLC – Ukraine’s largest UAV manufacturer, known for its Vampire and Shrike drones;
• Swarmer – develops software for the autonomous control of drone swarms.

Brave1 and Rakuten plan to further expand their cooperation by engaging Japanese government bodies and international partners in the development of defence and dual-use technologies in both countries.

DSEI Japan is the country’s only large-scale integrated defence and security event, held biennially and bringing together key industry players from around the globe. The exhibition features over 450 companies from more than 40 countries. This year’s edition will focus on innovations in artificial intelligence, unmanned systems, space technology, and cybersecurity.