Japan doubled defense spending to counter China. Now it wants AI, underwater attack drones and government-owned weapons factories
Japan plans to use drones, artificial intelligence and new methods of warfare as it adapts its defense strategies to suit changing times, according to details of an 8.9 trillion yen ($55.6 billion) budget request for the coming fiscal year disclosed by the Defense Ministry on Monday.
TL;DR
- Japan is requesting an 8.9 trillion yen ($55.6 billion) defense budget for the upcoming fiscal year.
- The budget aims to strengthen defense capabilities through new warfare methods, including drones and artificial intelligence.
- The ministry plans to develop and mass-produce low-cost uncrewed weapons, including underwater attack drones.
- AI will be integrated into command and control systems to improve decision-making speed and accuracy.
- Japan is considering a state-owned, contractor-operated system to ensure stable defense equipment production and supplies.
- The country is also focused on developing submarine-launched hypersonic missiles.