Japan seeks record US$55.6 billion defence budget, with AI focus
The final budget could reportedly reach 10 trillion yen as Tokyo upgrades its defence to navigate growing tension with neighbours such as China, North Korea and Russia.
Japan's defence ministry has requested a record-breaking budget of 8.9 trillion yen, or approximately US$55.6 billion, for fiscal year 2027, to bolster its military capabilities in response to rising tensions with China, North Korea, and Russia. The final budget could potentially exceed 10 trillion yen as Tokyo invests heavily in artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies.
The request emphasizes the development of AI-powered decision support systems, drones, and standoff missiles to enhance Japan's defensive capabilities against new forms of warfare. Additionally, the budget aims to fund the creation of underwater-launched hypersonic missiles and establish a new unit to counter cognitive warfare, which includes disinformation campaigns and other covert operations.
This heightened defence expenditure comes amid concerns over China's military expansion, North Korea's nuclear capabilities, and Russia's ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, known for her hawkish stance on China, is pushing for increased military spending and closer security cooperation in the region.
The budget request may surpass the 10 trillion yen mark, according to a ruling party lawmaker cited by the Nikkei newspaper.
Written by urgent.news from Channel News Asia's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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- Japan seeks record US$55.6bil defence budget, with AI focus freemalaysiatoday.com
- Japan seeks record US$55.6b defence budget, with AI focus malaymail.com
