Japan Eyes AI, Unmanned Warfare and Submarines in Record 2027 Defense Request

Japan's Ministry of Defense is asking for a record 8.9 trillion yen in FY2027, prioritizing AI and unmanned assets to adapt to 'new ways of warfare.' The request covers major maritime programs including New FFM frigates, Taigei-class submarines, long-endurance UAVs (MQ-9B SeaGuardian), Sakura OPVs, and enhancements to Aegis destroyers for Tomahawk deployment, as well as submarine- and underwater-launched missiles and UUV research. The final budget is expected to exceed 10 trillion yen, with hundreds of unpriced item requests awaiting year-end deliberations.