Japan's $55.6B Defense Budget Prioritizes Anti-Radar Missiles, Drones, and AI Integration
Japan's Ministry of Defense has requested a record 8.89 trillion yen ($55.6 billion) for the fiscal year starting in April 2026. The budget emphasizes acquiring Northrop Grumman's AARGM-ER anti-radar missiles, 17 General Atomics MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones, and interceptor drones. It also allocates funds for developing long-range air-to-air weapons and AI-driven command systems, though specific quantities for many platforms remain undisclosed pending the release of key national security strategies.