Fukushima tries to reinvent itself as hub for drones, robots and rockets

Disaster-ravaged Japan region draws tech firms with expansive testing grounds Hama, a startup based in the city of Minamisoma, is developing seaplane-style drones. (Photo by Yuya Takahashi) TOKYO -- More than 50 companies in fields such as drones and robotics have set up facilities in coastal Fukushima prefecture, which was hit hard by the 2011 tsunami and nuclear disaster but now has plenty of space for startups.