History shows cooperation between academics and military researchers increase the development growth cycle of industrialized nations. Japan’s current Prime Minister, Taro Aso, is expected to announce the easing of restrictions placed on Japanese companies preventing them from engaging in development of military weaponry unless used in the “self defense” of the country. What would currently be classified as “military” forces are extensions of the Japanese police force.  This 1940s ban is seen as the primary reason Japan is currently not in the international weapons market sans a single exception, a Japanese/American joint military defense missile shield developed to protect against a N. Korean threat.

Why is this important? Few could argue Japan is not the leader in civilian robotics. The potential of allowing companies to participate in joint ventures could be shown in miniaturized motors, advances in artificial intelligence, and further development of robots. All of these used for a military function, however there would be spill over into the civilian market. The internet was created by DARPA and knowing Japanese culture for niche markets, I’m looking forward to AirTreks, life-like fem/maidbots, and mecha ala Jango from Burst Angel.

[TimesOnline]