Japan’s record defence budget proposals prompt major reorganisation for navy
The JMSDF is heading for a major reorganisation that will affect platforms such as the helicopter carrier JS Izumo pictured here. (Photo: author)
Despite a record budget proposal, Japan’s military force has continued to face staffing problems, while the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force readies itself for a major upheaval of its surface fleet.
In its draft FY2025 defence budget, Japan’s Ministry of Defense (MoD) has tabled a record sum of JPY8.5 trillion ($59.4 billion), with the amount requested eclipsing this year’s defence expenditure of JPY7.95 trillion by 7%.
Tabled in August, if the budget is approved in December, defence expenditure would reach 1.4% of GDP. Japan has pledged defence spending of JPY43 trillion over a five-year period from FY2023–27, with the goal of reaching a GDP ratio of 2%.
Tokyo has remained alarmed at Chinese, Russian and North Korean intransigence, including the vulnerability of its southwest archipelago. In response, the MoD has proposed
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
![US Coast Guard Cutter Polar Star’s 50-year service highlights capability gaps in Antarctica]()
US Coast Guard Cutter Polar Star’s 50-year service highlights capability gaps in Antarctica
Delays in the construction of the Polar Security Cutter – the future substitute for the Polar Star – are likely to prolong the ageing icebreaker’s service time even more, putting the USCG in a risky position.
-
![As Indonesia doubles up its order, who else is looking at the Arrowhead 140 frigate design?]()
As Indonesia doubles up its order, who else is looking at the Arrowhead 140 frigate design?
The adaptable design of Babcock’s Arrowhead 140 frigate, already selected by the UK Royal Navy and Poland, has led to more orders from Indonesia while other countries continue to weigh it up.
-
![Does the increase in US firepower in the Middle East indicate another Iran strike?]()
Does the increase in US firepower in the Middle East indicate another Iran strike?
The presence of the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group in the Persian Gulf means additional naval and aerial capabilities, which provides the US with multiple attacking options.
-
![US Navy to invest more than $700 million in laser-related R&D efforts in FY2026]()
US Navy to invest more than $700 million in laser-related R&D efforts in FY2026
The US Navy’s acceleration of its laser weapon development initiatives reflects a decisive shift towards ultimately having a “laser on every ship” across tomorrow’s surface fleet.
