Japan’s budget reflects fears for remote islands
Japan’s defence budget grew by 2.1% for the 2019 fiscal calendar to a new seven-year high of $47 billion. Much of the money goes to securing ‘remote islands’ from Chinese attack, and building safeguards against North Korea’s nuclear and missile capabilities.
Approved by the MoD on 31 August, the budget still needs parliamentary and cabinet approval, though barriers appear unlikely with increased Chinese naval and air power projection in the East China Sea and continued fears over North Korea.
Though the report never mentions the Senkaku Islands by name, with references only to the ‘southwestern region’ or ‘remote islands’,
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Defence Notes
-
![Spain unveils new multi-billion euro defence investment plan]()
Spain unveils new multi-billion euro defence investment plan
The new plan outlined how Spain would reach 2% of its GDP spend on defence by 2025, with €1.9 billion earmarked for new equipment acquisition with several land, naval and air platforms disclosed to be replaced or upgraded.
-
![New Zealand boosts defence spend to US$6.6 billion and vows increased closeness with Australia]()
New Zealand boosts defence spend to US$6.6 billion and vows increased closeness with Australia
This budget will be spent over the next four years and nearly doubles the country’s defence spending as part of GDP to 2%.
-
![UK Chancellor commits £2 billion to make the country a “defence industrial superpower”]()
UK Chancellor commits £2 billion to make the country a “defence industrial superpower”
Rachel Reeves announced port upgrades, protected budgets for innovation and investment in novel technologies.
-
![Avalon 2025: Australian defence budget meets the low expectations of show attendees]()
Avalon 2025: Australian defence budget meets the low expectations of show attendees
The Australian Budget was marked by tax cuts and a looming general election which led to little hope that there would be a substantial defence boost even with a big bill for nuclear submarines due.
-
![Launch of Gilat Defense targets DoD market]()
Launch of Gilat Defense targets DoD market
The communications company Gilat launched its new Gilat Defense division at the Satellite 2025 expo, with future solutions aimed at US military customers.
