Japan’s Defense Ministry has requested 8.54 trillion yen ($59 billion) for fiscal year 2025 starting in April, marking its largest budget request ever. This increase comes as Tokyo aims to counter growing military threats from China, North Korea, and Russia.
The budget request represents a 7.4 percent rise from the current fiscal year’s initial budget and is the 13th consecutive increase. This trend began when Prime Minister Abe Shinzo, known for his strong stance against North Korea and China, returned to power in December 2012. Current Prime Minister Kishida Fumio, a member of the Liberal Democratic Party like Abe, pledged in 2022 to enhance Japan’s defense capabilities significantly by 2027.
The budget request will be reviewed by the Finance Ministry before a final decision is made in late December. It is highly likely that next year’s budget will be a record high for the 11th consecutive year.
The budget plan outlines seven key areas for strengthening Japan’s defense capabilities, including stand-off defense, air and missile defense, unmanned assets, cross-domain operations, command and control, maneuvering capability, and sustainability.
Specifically, the ministry requested funding for developing stand-off missiles, building satellite constellations, acquiring submarine-launched missiles, and enhancing integrated air and missile defense.
The ministry also plans to establish a Space Operations Wing and secure ammunition and missiles, including a new medium-range air-to-air guided missile. Additionally, investments are planned for new fighter jets, frigates, and vessels equipped with the Aegis system.
These efforts reflect Japan’s commitment to bolstering its defense capabilities in response to regional security challenges, particularly from China. The ministry’s focus is on modernizing its military equipment and technology to ensure the country’s security in the years to come.