DefenseTapping next-gen IOWN, new system will be equipped to handle AI integrationThe new communications network will send data gathered by radar, sensors and drones to command centers and data centers for AI analysis. (Photo by Ryota Ogata)KANAKO CHIBAAugust 30, 2026 03:37 JSTTOKYO -- Japan's Defense Ministry will adopt the core technology behind NTT's next-generation Innovative Optical Wireless Network (IOWN) for communication among Self-Defense Forces personnel and bases nationwide, Nikkei has learned.