Group 1 - The Japanese government plans to provide free reconnaissance drones to Sri Lanka as part of its strategy to enhance security support to "like-minded" Asian countries amid concerns over China's maritime expansion [1][2] - Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio is expected to meet with Sri Lankan President Dinesh Gunawardena to sign an agreement allowing Japan to supply drones under the "Official Security Assistance" (OSA) framework [1] - The OSA assistance for the fiscal year 2025 includes eight countries, with Sri Lanka being the second recipient of drones after Malaysia, which has already received 14 drones and 7 rescue boats from Japan [1] Group 2 - Both Malaysia and Sri Lanka are located in strategic maritime chokepoints, and Japan's actions are seen as part of a broader strategy to counter China's influence in the region [2] - Japan's right-wing forces are increasingly gaining power, and the country is enhancing its defense capabilities in alignment with the U.S. "Indo-Pacific Strategy," aiming to encircle China strategically [2] - The provision of military equipment by Japan, although labeled as "free," is expected to lead to further cooperation and military expansion, indicating a departure from Japan's post-World War II defense principles [2]