NHK has learned that Japan's government is planning to provide financial support for the development of next-generation drones. Officials want to nurture domestic makers in a global market where China holds a 70-percent share.

The assistance includes low-interest loans from government-affiliated institutions. Preferential tax treatment and subsidies are also planned.

Manufacturers will have to meet a set of conditions to receive the support. They will be required to take steps to prevent hacking and leaks of images taken by their drones. China's global dominance in the field is raising concerns over data security.

Japan's logistics and farming industries are expected to make more use of the aircraft in the future.

The government is expected to present a bill on the assistance and the guidelines to a regular Diet session that convenes later this month.

NHK