Japan bets big on drones, AI and missiles in defense budget plan

Japan has requested a $55.6 billion defense budget focused on drones, AI and missiles, with funds aimed at stabilizing defense production by expanding state-backed capacity and outsourcing manufacturing to private firms. The plan also supports defense-related R&D and industry restructuring, as major suppliers like Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Kawasaki, and IHI have benefited, though the sector faces challenges from constitutional limits on force use and supplier withdrawal risks.