This report introduces the current status of Fukushima Prefecture's development as an advanced region in the robot and drone field, as the third installment of the "Taking Flight from Fukushima" series.
In Fukushima Prefecture, alongside rebuilding pre-disaster livelihoods, movements toward creating new industries are becoming active, with the "Fukushima Robot Test Field (RTF)" serving as the core. RTF fully opened in March 2020, established as a major research and development demonstration base for robots and drones working on land, sea, and air on approximately 50 hectares (equivalent to 10 Tokyo Domes) in Minamisoma City and Namie Town. In April 2025, it was integrated into the Fukushima Institute for Research, Education and Innovation (F-REI), strengthening its functions as a world-class facility.
Since inception, over 1,200 demonstration tests have been conducted through May 2025, with more than 80 robot-related companies establishing operations in the Hamadori region and other areas. In October 2025, F-REI will host the "WRS (World Robot Summit) 2025," featuring development competitions for robots active in harsh environments such as large-scale disasters.
As specific company examples, venture company "KUFUUSIYA" established a base in Minamisoma City, advancing development of AI-powered autonomous four-legged robots. The company cites three advantages: "easy demonstration testing," "easy manufacturing," and "substantial support systems," promoting development utilizing RTF. Additionally, Fukushima Sangi Kyokai expanded from information and communication business to develop "Dr.Bee," a drone for large wind power generation inspection, through industry-academia-government collaboration as "Team Fukushima."
The article demonstrates that under the Fukushima Innovation Coast Initiative, Fukushima is developing as a world-class robot and drone industry cluster base where recovery aspirations and cutting-edge technology converge.