Japan is increasing defense spending
Last Updated on August 31, 2024 6:43 am
Japan will invest in artificial intelligence, automated technology and military modernization to counter China’s growing military power. This was stated by the Ministry of Defense of Japan in a statement on Friday.
In the annual budget proposal, the Ministry of Defense said, “We are increasing the military strength. Therefore, it is necessary to build our organization in such a way that we can continue to fight in the new situation.
According to a Reuters report, the country has requested a 6.9 percent increase in defense spending. Defense spending will be ¥8.5 trillion (US$5,900 million). The decision came after the lowest number of recruits in Japan’s ‘Self Defense Force’ (SDF).
As of March 31 this year, less than 10,000 citizens have joined the Navy, Army and Air Force. Which is half of the country’s target.
In 2022, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced a doubling of defense spending. As part of the plan, it was decided to purchase missiles and other weapons and fighter jets and build a capable cyber defense force. China could forcefully occupy neighboring Taiwan, leading to a war with Japan. It is from this apprehension that attention is paid to reinforcements.
Japan’s declining birth rate is also a cause for concern. This has made it difficult for them to maintain the size of their current force of 250,000 members. According to the plan, 18 billion yen will be spent on artificial intelligence. In addition, ¥314 billion will be spent on unmanned drones and automated air defense vehicles.
As a result of these measures, the issue of low membership can be tackled. Besides, efforts are being made to increase the participation of women in the defense forces. Only 10 percent of the force members are women.
Increasing women’s participation has been particularly difficult due to multiple allegations of sexual harassment. In addition to solving these problems, 16.4 billion yen will be spent on the construction of improved toilets and showers for women members.