Japan Plans to Double Defense Budget Over Five Years to Boost Military Capabilities

The Japanese government and ruling coalition are considering doubling defense spending over the next five years in a move aimed at strengthening the country's military capabilities. The proposal suggests that defense expenditure for the five-year period starting April 2027 could range between 70 and 80 trillion yen, equivalent to approximately 457 to 508 billion dollars, compared to about 43 trillion yen allocated in the current five-year plan that began in fiscal year 2023. This plan aligns with Prime Minister Sanai Takaichi's policy to enhance military strength, while the final spending amount remains under discussion as the government prepares the new budget and reviews national security documents expected to be completed by the end of the year. One source indicated that the new allocations may include purchasing large numbers of drones, noting that the depreciation of the yen has increased the cost of importing defense equipment. Another source estimated the spending to be between 75 and 80 trillion yen but expressed doubts about the sufficiency of this amount given the security situation in East Asia, emphasizing that the final figure will be subject to negotiations between the government and coalition parties. The Japanese Ministry of Defense stated it has no comment on this information at this time.