Japan seeks record $59 billion defense budget amid escalating “Chinese threat”

The Japanese Defense Ministry has requested a record 8.5 trillion yen (approximately $59 billion) for its 2025 defense budget, driven by the growing threat posed by China.

The budget request was approved on August 30 and will be submitted to the Ministry of Finance for negotiations, expected to conclude in December, according to Caliber.Az, citing foreign media sources.

The proposed budget includes 970 billion yen dedicated to "strengthening retaliatory strike capability," which involves the development and acquisition of long-range missiles and supporting equipment. An additional 103 billion yen is allocated for the development and purchase of drones, and 314 billion yen is requested for the construction of three new destroyers.

This significant increase in defense spending reflects Japan's efforts to enhance its military capabilities, particularly in the southwestern regions, in response to China's expanding military presence in the Asia-Pacific.

Japan's defense strategy has evolved considerably in recent years, with the country committing to a more proactive and robust military posture. By 2027, Japan plans to allocate 10 trillion yen annually for defense, making it the world's third-largest military spender after the United States and China.

Background information

Japan's decision to increase its defense budget comes amid a broader trend of rising military expenditures globally, particularly in response to perceived threats from major powers like China and Russia. The United States, the world's largest military spender, has consistently maintained a robust defense budget, while China has rapidly expanded its military capabilities in recent years.

Japan's move to significantly boost its defense spending is part of a strategic shift to ensure it can effectively counter potential threats and maintain stability in the region. This increase aligns with Japan's broader national security strategy, which emphasizes deterrence and the ability to respond swiftly to regional conflicts.