日本军备扩张按下“加速键”（环球热点）

Core Viewpoint - The Japanese government has approved a supplementary budget for the fiscal year 2025, allocating 847.2 billion yen to the Ministry of Defense, leading to a record total defense spending of approximately 11 trillion yen for the current fiscal year, marking the 13th consecutive year of defense budget increases [1][2]. Group 1: Defense Spending Increase - Japan's defense budget is set to reach about 11 trillion yen for the fiscal year 2025, with a GDP ratio of 2% [2]. - The supplementary budget includes 1.1 trillion yen for defense-related expenses, with 847.2 billion yen specifically allocated for military equipment purchases, including 122.2 billion yen for frigates and submarines, and 56.6 billion yen for missiles [2]. - The defense spending as a percentage of GDP is projected to rise from 1.19% in fiscal year 2023 to 2% by fiscal year 2025, indicating a rapid increase [2]. Group 2: Strategic Motivations - The increase in defense spending is part of a broader strategy initiated by former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, aimed at breaking through previous security policies and aligning with U.S. military objectives to strengthen the Japan-U.S. alliance [2][3]. - The Japanese government aims to achieve a "normal military power" status, moving away from the post-World War II principle of "defensive defense" [3][9]. Group 3: Regional Security Implications - Japan's military expansion poses significant risks to regional security, challenging the outcomes of World War II and the post-war international order [5][9]. - The government's actions, including the potential for arms exports and participation in international military exercises, indicate a shift towards a more aggressive military posture [7][8]. Group 4: Domestic Concerns - The rising defense budget has sparked public protests, with citizens expressing concerns over the neglect of social welfare in favor of military spending [10][11]. - The government’s plan to finance increased defense spending through personal income tax hikes raises concerns about the economic burden on the Japanese populace amid ongoing economic challenges [12].