Linked below is the original article[1] from Politico. We'll see what the actual National Defense Strategy 2025 PDF says, but the article is consistent with remarks Hegseth[2] has made about China's military, particularly its hypersonics.Here's the piece.Pentagon plan prioritizes homeland over China threatThis marks a major departure from the first Trump administration, which emphasized deterring Beijing.Pentagon officials are proposing the department prioritize protecting the homeland and Western Hemispher ...

MAGA has thrown in the towel on China.This is completely understandable.But it has many implications.(1) First, what just happened? The new National Defense Strategy[1] is reportedly pivoting away from China and towards the homeland. Many troops will be brought back...at first to enforce the border, and perhaps soon to patrol the streets as they're doing in DC.(2) Second, why did it happen? Because the US military is made in China. You can't fight your factory. And the stark numerical reality is that Chines ...

Any US “national defense strategy” is better than none at all. Too bad the one being drafted will seem naïve and won’t even be read in the Oval Office, says @andreaskluth (via @opinion) https://t.co/9DrpfNngsH ...

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call on Japan's Defense Industry Industry Overview - The discussion focuses on Japan's defense industry, particularly the anticipated upward revision of the defense budget for FY25-27, with a target of 3% of GDP for the next five-year plan [1][2][3]. Core Insights - **Defense Budget Increase**: Mr. Koji Imaki suggests that Japan's defense budget should be revised to 3% of GDP, up from the current target of 2%, due to international pressures and comparisons with NATO and EU defense spending [2][3][4]. - **Technological Advancements**: Emphasis on enhancing digital engineering for unmanned defense equipment and next-generation fighter programs, with a focus on AI technology [3][4][5]. - **Aging Workforce**: The aging population in Japan is leading to a shortage of engineers, necessitating the adoption of AI and digital technologies to maintain production capacity [3][83]. - **Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP)**: Japan, the UK, and Italy are collaborating on the development of the sixth-generation fighter plane, with challenges anticipated due to the ambitious timeline of 10 years for development [4][66]. Financial Projections - **Defense Budget Allocation**: The total defense budget for FY23-27 is projected to be ¥43.5 trillion, with significant increases in various capabilities, including unmanned systems and cross-domain operations [9][29][39]. - **Specific Budget Increases**: Notable increases include ¥5 trillion for counter-strike capabilities and a 90% increase for unmanned systems, indicating a shift in focus towards advanced technologies [41][43]. International Opportunities - **Overseas Contracts**: Mr. Imaki identifies potential overseas opportunities, particularly the Australian Sea 3000 project, where Japanese companies like Mitsubishi Heavy Industries are well-positioned [5][76]. - **Export Potential**: The only notable export recorded was a ¥15 billion contract for surveillance radars to the Philippines, highlighting the need for Japan to expand its defense exports [5][49]. Strategic Considerations - **Defense Policy Shifts**: The Japanese government is expected to review its arms export policies, which have historically been restrictive, to enhance international collaboration and competitiveness [30][71]. - **Joint Development Initiatives**: The focus on joint development with allies, such as the US, is crucial for enhancing Japan's defense capabilities and industrial base [67][75]. Additional Insights - **Emerging Start-ups**: The rise of start-ups in the defense sector is noted, particularly those leveraging dual-use technologies like AI and quantum computing, which could play a significant role in future defense contracts [84]. - **Human Resource Challenges**: The defense industry faces challenges in securing a skilled workforce due to demographic shifts, emphasizing the need for technological solutions to compensate for labor shortages [82][83]. Conclusion - The future of Japan's defense industry is poised for significant transformation, driven by increased budget allocations, technological advancements, and a strategic pivot towards international collaboration and export opportunities [78][79].