Japan’s defense budget for the fiscal year 2024 has reached a record high, with the Cabinet approving a budget of 7.95 trillion yen (approximately $55.9 billion). This marks a 16.5% increase from the previous year and is part of Japan’s broader efforts to bolster its military capabilities in response to rising threats from China, North Korea, and Russia. The budget increase reflects Japan’s commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities amid what it describes as the “most severe and complex security environment since the end of World War II” The Diplomat
Japan is pushing for its largest defense budget in history, requesting $59.1 billion (8.5 trillion yen) for fiscal year 2025, which begins in April. The proposed budget reflects Japan’s response to increasing security concerns posed by China, North Korea, and Russia. It includes substantial investments in new military hardware and advanced technologies to strengthen the nation’s defenses.
One of the key components of this budget request is the construction of three new multirole frigates, known as New FFMs. Japan’s Ministry of Defense (MoD) is asking for $2.2 billion to build these frigates, which are enhanced versions of the existing Mogami-class ships. These new frigates will be larger and more capable, featuring improved missile systems, enhanced anti-submarine warfare abilities, and greater operational versatility. Notably, this is the first time the MoD has sought funding for three frigates in a single year, a move that underscores Japan’s urgency in bolstering its naval strength.
Japan’s defense ministry seeks record budget as it faces growing threat from China. https://t.co/cHGv9iQniA
— brandon mugisha (@brandon_mu84775) August 30, 2024
The budget also includes $558.5 million for acquiring and testing two Aegis System Equipped Vessels (ASEVs). These new ships are meant to replace the previously canceled Aegis Ashore missile defense system. The ASEVs will be significantly larger than the current Maya-class destroyers, indicating a substantial upgrade in Japan’s maritime defense capabilities. These vessels are expected to join the fleet in the late 2020s.
In addition, the MoD is requesting $12.4 million to continue modifying the JS Izumo, a helicopter carrier being converted into a light aircraft carrier capable of deploying F-35B fighter jets. The ongoing modifications include structural changes to support these advanced jets, with completion expected by 2027.
The defense budget also highlights the acquisition of new transport vessels to improve logistical support, especially for remote islands in the southwest of Japan. The MoD plans to spend $140.5 million on these ships and establish a new maritime transport unit to enhance operational readiness in this strategic region. Furthermore, $20.8 million is allocated for developing submarine-launched long-range cruise missiles, enhancing Japan’s underwater combat capabilities.
Research and development also feature prominently in Japan’s defense budget. The MoD has earmarked funds for exploring new technologies, including $207.6 million for an underwater vertical launch system (VLS) for submarines, $132 million for a ship-based high-power laser system to counter drone threats, and $25.6 million for small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to boost surveillance capabilities. There is also a $22.8 million request for research on the next generation of Aegis-equipped ships, reflecting Japan’s ongoing commitment to maintaining a technological edge in naval warfare.
#FPWorld: Japan’s Defense Ministry requested a record 8.5 trillion-yen ($59 billion) budget for the upcoming year to enhance deterrence on southwestern islands considering China’s growing threats.https://t.co/M59cm60jX3
— Firstpost (@firstpost) August 30, 2024
Japan’s aggressive defense spending plan highlights its strategic shift towards rapid military modernization in response to regional threats. The government’s focus on enhancing its naval and missile capabilities demonstrates a commitment to safeguarding national security in an increasingly volatile environment.
Key Points:
i. Japan is requesting a record $59.1 billion defense budget for 2025 to counter regional threats.
ii. Key investments include three new multirole frigates and two Aegis System Equipped Vessels.
iii. The budget also covers ongoing modifications to the JS Izumo to support F-35B fighter operations.
iv. Funds are allocated for new transport vessels and submarine-launched missiles to strengthen maritime capabilities.
v. Significant resources are dedicated to research and development of advanced military technologies, including underwater VLS and ship-based laser systems.
TL Holcomb – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
