Japan: Record Defense Budget to Counter 'New Warfare Methods'

Japan’s Ministry of Defense has requested a record budget of 8.9 trillion yen ($55.6 billion) for the next fiscal year, as Tokyo seeks to harness artificial intelligence technologies and accelerate decision-making amid a tense security environment.

According to related reports, the final budget could reach 10 trillion yen, as Tokyo proceeds with a comprehensive overhaul of its defenses. The ministry’s latest request focuses on countering “new methods of warfare,” emphasizing the use of artificial intelligence, drones, and long-range missiles.

As part of this request, the ministry hopes to implement an AI-driven decision-support system. It is also seeking to purchase low-cost drones capable of operating in coordination with long-range missiles to neutralize enemy capabilities and military assets. The Japanese Ministry of Defense stated that it also plans to develop an underwater-launched hypersonic missile system and establish a new unit to bolster defenses against cognitive warfare, a growing threat aimed at influencing public opinion through disinformation campaigns and other operations.

The Nikkei newspaper reported that the ministry’s request could exceed 10 trillion yen, citing an unnamed lawmaker from the ruling party.

The current request does not include cost estimates for many pieces of equipment and services, including missiles, drones, and digital systems. Defense ministry officials said these figures will be finalized after the government completes its review of key national security documents by the end of the year.