Japan's Defense Ministry has outlined plans to bolster the nation's defense capabilities through the integration of drones, artificial intelligence, and advanced missile systems, according to details of an 8.9 trillion yen ($55.6 billion) budget request for the upcoming fiscal year. This preliminary figure represents a modest increase from the previous year's request and is expected to grow substantially once the government finalizes new security and defense strategies.
The ministry stated its intention to "drastically strengthen its deterrence and response capability by transforming its defense capability" in response to evolving warfare, citing Ukraine's use of drones as an example. The strategy includes the domestic development and mass production of cost-effective uncrewed weapons to reduce expenses, minimize personnel casualties, and establish a more efficient air defense network.
Under the proposed budget, Japan aims to acquire unmanned attack drones capable of operating in air and underwater environments, with funding requested for the fiscal year beginning April 2027. These uncrewed systems are also seen as a way to offset the impact of Japan's aging and shrinking population on its military personnel numbers.
Enhanced Strike Capabilities
To further enhance its counterstrike capacity, the ministry is also pursuing the development of hypersonic missiles that can be launched from submarines. This initiative is part of a broader five-year defense strategy initiated in 2022, which has already seen Japan double its defense spending to approximately 2% of its gross domestic product to bolster the offensive roles of its Self-Defense Forces. This buildup has drawn criticism from China, which has labeled it as "new militarism."
Integration of AI and Advanced Systems
A key component of the planned transformation is the introduction of an integrated AI platform for command and control systems. This platform is designed to improve the speed and accuracy of decision-making, including battlefield assessment and target selection. Japan is exploring the use of existing foreign AI technologies, particularly from the U.S., alongside domestic AI development and hybrid approaches. The ministry plans to establish an "AI orchestrator" system to manage and operate multiple AI systems autonomously.
Furthermore, the ministry intends to develop a secure "Defense Ministry cloud" to facilitate the transmission of highly sensitive data and ensure stable communication networks during emergencies or disasters.
Securing Defense Production
Recognizing the importance of stable and sustainable defense equipment production, the ministry is also seeking to mitigate risks associated with supplier shortages. To address this, it has requested unspecified funding for a state-owned, contractor-operated system. This system would involve the government acquiring factories and outsourcing manufacturing to private companies, ensuring a consistent supply chain for defense equipment.
The budget request also allocates funds to support defense-related research and development within companies, aiming to strengthen their production capabilities and efficiency. This comes as major defense contractors have seen increased profits due to Japan's military buildup and expanded arms exports. However, the industry has faced challenges, including companies withdrawing due to profitability concerns, uncertain business outlooks, and reputational risks associated with arms manufacturing.