"Japan's government approved a record defence budget of more than 9 trillion yen ($58bn) for 2026, reflecting a push to strengthen military and coastal defences amid rising global tensions."
"Under the new budget, more than 970 billion yen ($6.2bn) is earmarked to enhance Japan's standoff missile capabilities, including the purchase of domestically produced Type-12 surface-to-ship missiles."
"Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi stated that one of the main reasons for increasing the defence budget was the potential need for military involvement if China were to invade Taiwan."
Japan is rapidly expanding its defense exports by easing arms export rules, marking a departure from its pacifist foreign policy. The country has approved a record defense budget exceeding 9 trillion yen for 2026, part of a broader national budget aimed at strengthening military capabilities. This increase is driven by concerns over regional security, particularly regarding China and Taiwan. Japan's Prime Minister indicated that military involvement may be necessary if China invades Taiwan, prompting a reevaluation of defense strategies and spending.
Read at www.aljazeera.com
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