Regulatory Compliance News

Japan MIC Permits 5.2 GHz Wi-Fi for Drones

On April 7, 2025, Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) issued Ordinance No. 41, amending existing Radio Law regulations to permit license-exempt use of the 5.2 GHz band (5,150–5,250 MHz) for airborne WLAN systems, such as those mounted on drones. These systems must adhere to the same technical standards as their ground-based counterparts.

This regulatory update streamlines operations for recreational and commercial drone operators, eliminating a previously required administrative step. As demand for aerial inspection and real-time video transmission grows, this change facilitates faster innovation while keeping technical safety in focus.