ACSL Ltd. (“ACSL”) is issuing the following statement regarding an interview article featuring Shoji Terayama, Representative Director and Co-CEO of ACSL, which was published on Toyo Keizai Online, a Japanese-language business news website.

■ Regarding the Content of the Article
The article includes references to the “development of attack drones.” These references reflect general views regarding the future direction of certain technological areas and issues related to research and development, and do not indicate that ACSL has, at this time, made any decisions regarding specific projects or product development plans.

■ ACSL’s Basic Position
The following provides clarification regarding the term “attack” as used in the article.
The technological development undertaken by ACSL is intended to contribute to Japan’s national security and defense capabilities, and is not aimed at the development of equipment or weapons designed exclusively for offensive purposes.
At the same time, from the perspective of national defense, ACSL recognizes the importance of technologies and products that could be used for interception or defensive purposes in emergency situations. However, the specific form such technologies should take and the manner in which development should proceed require careful consideration from technical, institutional, and ethical perspectives. Even in discussions regarding functions or applications required for defense-related missions, ACSL operates in accordance with Japan’s defense policy and all applicable laws and regulations.
To date, ACSL has provided the Ministry of Defense with drones primarily for reconnaissance purposes, along with related operational support. Going forward, ACSL will continue to pursue research and development of relevant technologies as an extension of these existing initiatives.

■ Compliance and Ethical Policy
ACSL places great importance on its social responsibilities as a corporate entity and does not engage in the development or manufacture of weapons of mass destruction (including nuclear, biological, or chemical weapons) or other inhumane weapons that are restricted or prohibited under international treaties. ACSL will continue to ensure strict compliance with applicable international laws and regulations as well as domestic laws and regulations, and to conduct its business operations in accordance with ethical standards.
Through a focus on dual-use technologies applicable to both civilian and defense purposes, ACSL remains committed to contributing to the enhancement of Japan’s national security and industrial base.

*This release is intended solely to provide supplementary explanation regarding a media article and does not constitute an indication of ACSL’s future business plans or earnings forecasts.

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