Japan has approved its largest-ever defense budget, allocating more than ¥9 trillion ($58 billion) for the next fiscal year. The figure represents a 9.4% increase from the current period and marks the fourth year of Japan’s five-year plan to raise defense spending to 2% of GDP, according to The Guardian.
The new budget prioritizes counterstrike capabilities and coastal defenses, with investments in surface-to-ship missiles and unmanned systems. As part of the plan, Japan will spend about ¥100 billion to deploy air, surface and underwater drones for surveillance and coastal protection. Authorities say the program, known as «Shield,» is expected to become operational by March 2028.
The increase in military spending comes as relations between Tokyo and China have deteriorated following remarks by Japan’s prime minister suggesting possible military involvement if China were to attack Taiwan.
Beijing considers Taiwan a breakaway province and has not ruled out using force to bring the island under its control. Taiwan’s government and most of its population reject China’s claims, maintaining their de facto independence and seeking support from international partners.
