Core Viewpoint - Japan's defense budget for the fiscal year 2026 exceeds 9 trillion yen, marking a historic high and reflecting a significant shift towards offensive military capabilities, moving away from its previous "defensive" posture [1] Group 1: Defense Budget Overview - The defense budget 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 in military spending [1] - Japan's defense spending now aligns with NATO standards, suggesting a transformation of the Self-Defense Forces into a more capable military [1] Group 2: Allocation of Defense Spending - A significant portion of the budget is allocated for developing medium- and long-range missiles capable of striking enemy missile bases and command centers, with plans to extend the range of certain missile types to over 1,000 kilometers [1] - Joint development with the United States of hypersonic glide weapons traveling at five times the speed of sound is underway, with some systems nearing operational readiness [1] - Investment is also directed towards producing advanced military equipment, including deep-sea submarines and space weapons, as well as enhancing unmanned combat capabilities [1] Group 3: Strategic Implications - The shift in Japan's defense strategy indicates a move towards offensive capabilities, aimed at military deterrence against China, which could pose potential threats to national security and regional peace in East Asia [1]

Core Viewpoint - The Japanese government has approved a record defense budget exceeding 9 trillion yen for the fiscal year 2026, reflecting a significant increase in military spending and a shift towards a more offensive military strategy [1][3]. Group 1: Defense Budget Overview - Japan's defense budget has consistently surpassed 6 trillion yen, 7 trillion yen, 8 trillion yen, and now 9 trillion yen in recent fiscal years, indicating a rapid escalation in military expenditure [1]. - The proportion of defense spending in Japan's GDP has risen sharply from 1.19% to 2% from fiscal year 2023 to 2025, aligning with NATO standards for military spending [3]. Group 2: Allocation of Defense Spending - The increased defense budget is primarily allocated towards developing medium- and long-range missiles capable of striking enemy command centers, with plans to extend missile ranges to over 1,000 kilometers and budget for at least 1,000 missiles [5]. - Japan is collaborating with the United States to develop hypersonic glide weapons, with some projects already nearing operational readiness [5]. - The budget also supports the production of advanced military equipment, including deep-sea submarines and space weapons, emphasizing a shift towards unmanned combat capabilities [5]. Group 3: Strategic Implications - The Japanese government is moving away from its "defensive" posture towards a more aggressive military strategy aimed at deterring China, which poses potential threats to regional security [5]. - The current administration under Prime Minister Kishi has accelerated military expansion efforts, including potential revisions to arms export policies and nuclear principles, indicating a significant shift in Japan's defense posture [7][9]. - This aggressive military stance has raised concerns among the Japanese public and opposition parties, suggesting potential negative impacts on the economy and civilian life [9].