A recent incident above the USS Ronald Reagan at Yokosuka Naval Base in Japan has sparked a Navy investigation after apparent drone photography surfaced on social media platforms.
The incident highlights new challenges for maritime security, with drones capable of quickly gathering intelligence or potentially posing a threat with malicious intent.
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According to reports, a Chinese citizen was responsible for launching the drone that captured images of the USS Ronald Reagan while docked at Yokosuka Naval Base. The Defense Ministry of Japan also pointed to previous drone operations capturing video of a Japanese destroyer, which appeared on a Chinese video-sharing website.
The use of drones near military facilities is prohibited in Japan, reflecting broader concerns about unauthorized surveillance and potential security breaches.
Despite the images circulating on social media, the U.S. Navy has not confirmed whether they were indeed taken from a drone. However, base officials emphasized that force protection measures are regularly in place to ensure the security of naval assets and personnel.
Japanese Defense Minister Kihara Minoru expressed concerns about the implications of such incidents, noting the potential for drones to undermine defense capabilities and emphasizing the need to enhance security measures around military installations.
In response to evolving drone threats, defense experts like Professor Sato Heigo advocate for advanced technological solutions, including radio and optical sensors, radio interference, and net-shooting mechanisms to counter unauthorized drone activity.
The investigation underscores the growing importance of addressing drone-related challenges in maritime security, especially in regions where military assets are stationed.
