Japan's cabinet has approved a record defense budget of over ¥9 trillion (approximately $58 billion) as tensions with China escalate. The decision, made on Friday, reflects a 9.4% increase from the previous budget and is part of a five-year plan aimed at doubling Japan's annual arms spending to 2% of its GDP by 2026.

Defense Budget Details
The budget is designed to enhance Japan's strike-back capabilities and coastal defense systems. Key allocations include ¥100 billion for deploying a range of unmanned drones—air, sea-surface, and underwater—as part of a surveillance and defense initiative known as "Shield," expected to be operational by March 2028. This expansion of military capabilities comes in response to perceived threats from China, particularly regarding its aggressive stance in the region.

Escalating Tensions with China
Relations between Japan and China have deteriorated significantly, particularly following remarks by Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who indicated that Japan might militarily intervene if China were to attack Taiwan. This statement provoked a strong backlash from Beijing, which has since implemented various diplomatic and economic retaliatory measures against Japan. Takaichi has stood firm on her comments, asserting they do not signify a shift in Japan's defense policies.

China's Response
In a recent press briefing, China's defense ministry accused Japan of contributing to a "space arms race" through its advancements in space technology, some of which involve collaboration with the United States. Beijing has expressed concerns that Japan's military enhancements could lead to further regional instability, invoking historical references to Japan's militaristic past.

Japan's Security Strategy
Japan's postwar constitution prohibits the use of military force in resolving international disputes. However, an amendment passed in 2015 allows for collective self-defense in specific scenarios, even without a direct attack. This legislative change has enabled Japan to adopt a more assertive security posture, particularly in light of its current strategic assessment that identifies China as its principal security challenge.

Wrap-up
The approval of Japan's defense budget marks a significant shift in its military policy amid growing tensions with China. As both nations navigate this complex geopolitical landscape, the implications of Japan's increased military spending and enhanced capabilities will likely reverberate throughout the region and beyond.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team