JUIDA New Year Reception 2026: Event Report

On Tuesday, January 27, JUIDA hosted the “JUIDA New Year Reception 2026” at the Tokyo Kaikan in Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo.

 

 

The JUIDA New Year Reception 2026 served as a premier gathering for stakeholders across the Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) industry and related sectors. The event was held to celebrate the new year while praying for the further advancement of the industry and the strengthening of professional partnerships. The day saw a large turnout, including representatives from relevant government ministries, JUIDA members, UAS-related corporations, component manufacturers, and various media outlets, providing a vibrant platform for active networking.

 

 

■Opening Remarks by Shinji Suzuki, President of JUIDA

In his opening address, President Shinji Suzuki highlighted JUIDA’s past initiatives and the current state of the organization. Furthermore, he unveiled “Tenma Koku” (= A heavenly horse galloping across the sky) as the slogan for 2026. Along with this new year’s resolution, he shared his vision for the future prospects of the UAS industry.

 

■Congratulatory Addresses and Messages from Members of the Diet

We received and introduced several congratulatory messages and telegrams from distinguished members of the Diet during the ceremony.

A congratulatory telegram was received from Mr. Kazunori Tanaka, former Member of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the Parliamentary Group for the Promotion and Utilization of Unmanned Aircraft.

A congratulatory message was received from Ms. Karen Makishima, former Member of the House of Representatives and Vice Secretary-General of the Parliamentary Group for the Promotion and Utilization of Unmanned Aircraft.

A congratulatory message was received from Mr. Kentaro Asahi, Member of the House of Councillors and Secretary of the Parliamentary Group for the Promotion and Utilization of Unmanned Aircraft.

 

■Greetings from Guests of Honor

Following the opening, representatives from relevant government ministries offered their greetings. From their respective departmental perspectives, they discussed the current status of the UAS industry, initiatives toward social implementation, and future expectations.

Cabinet Office Mr. Hiroshi Kobayashi, Councilor (Disaster Emergency Response), Office of the Director General for Policy Planning (Disaster Management)

Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications Mr. Yamato Igarashi, Director, Mobile Communications Division, Radio Department, Telecommunications Bureau

Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry Mr. Shigeru Furuichi, Director, Next Generation Air Mobility Policy Office, Aircraft, Manufacturing Industries Bureau

Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Mr. Makoto Eguchi, Director, Unmanned Aircraft Safety Division, Aviation Safety and Security Department, Civil Aviation Bureau

Ministry of Defense Mr. Tetsuya Takeuchi, Deputy Chief of Staff, Eastern Army Headquarters, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force

 

■Report on Drone-based Firefighting Support Activities at Mt. Ougi (Uenohara City/Otsuki City, Yamanashi Prefecture) by JUIDA Member Companies

JUIDA presented a report on the disaster relief activities conducted on-site by member companies—Fujisan Drone Base, Blue Innovation Co., Ltd., and Prodrone Co., Ltd.—in response to the recent wildfire at Mt. Ougi, which spans Uenohara and Otsuki cities in Yamanashi Prefecture.

 

■Networking and Social Hour

After the remarks from the guests of honor, a social hour was held for JUIDA participants. This led to a spirited exchange of opinions that transcended organizational affiliations and roles. The venue was filled with discussions on the latest industry trends, making it a highly productive networking opportunity.

A toast was proposed by Mr. Yoshio Aoki, Advisor to JUIDA, followed by a collective toast on stage by the guests of honor along with JUIDA directors and executive officers.

Scenes from the JUIDA New Year Reception 2026 venue.

 

Introduction of video messages from JUIDA’s overseas MOU partners.

 

■Closing Remarks by Yasuhiro Senda, Vice President of JUIDA

 

 

~Looking Ahead~

Through this reception, JUIDA has further deepened its collaboration with attendees, including relevant ministries, member companies, and organizations. We remain committed to initiatives aimed at the continued evolution of the unmanned aircraft industry and its related fields.

We look forward to your continued support and cooperation for JUIDA’s activities throughout this year.