Japan seeks record $55.6 billion defense budget, with AI focus

Japan's Defense Ministry requested a record 8.9 trillion yen ($55.6 billion) budget, with reports suggesting the final figure could reach 10 trillion yen. The request emphasizes AI-powered decision-support systems, low-cost drones paired with long-range missiles, underwater-launched hypersonic missiles, and a new unit devoted to countering disinformation campaigns.

The push continues Japan's drift from its postwar pacifist posture amid rising friction with China, North Korea and Russia, sharpened by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's comments suggesting Japan could intervene militarily over Taiwan. Notably, the request left cost estimates for many of the actual weapons and systems unspecified, pending finalized security documents due by year's end.

The full dispatch is available from the source below.