Record Defense Budget Approved
Japan's Cabinet officially approved a record-setting defense budget for fiscal year 2026 on December 26, 2025. The budget totals over JPY 9 trillion, equivalent to approximately $58 billion USD, marking the 12th consecutive year of increase and the highest defense spending in Japan's post-war history. This substantial allocation underscores a significant shift in the nation's defense strategy, moving towards enhanced strike capabilities.
Accelerated Hypersonic Missile Program
A key component of this budget is the accelerated funding for the production of hypersonic missiles. The Ministry of Defense has brought forward the mass production schedule from its original target of 2031 to 2026, citing a deteriorating security environment. Initial funding for the priority procurement contract stands at JPY 3.1 billion (approximately $19.8 million USD). Further allocations include JPY 73.2 billion (about $467 million USD) for continued development and improvement, and an additional JPY 162.6 billion (about $1.04 billion USD) earmarked to scale up serial production.
The primary system under development is the Hyper Velocity Gliding Projectile (HVGP). The HVGP Block 1 variant is slated to enter service with Ground Self-Defense Force units in 2026, with an estimated range of 500-900 kilometers. Future variants, including Block 2/2A/2B, are planned for deployment by 2027 and 2030, aiming for extended ranges of 2,000 to 3,000 kilometers. These missiles are designed for both anti-ship missions and strikes against ground targets and are expected to be deployed from mobile launchers, with future integration onto aircraft and naval platforms. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries is the manufacturer of the HVGP system, under contract from Japan's Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Agency (ATLA).
Responding to Regional Threats
This rapid enhancement of Japan's defense capabilities is a direct response to perceived growing military threats, particularly from China and North Korea. Japan's annual defense white paper has consistently highlighted China's military activities as a 'grave concern,' noting the increasing presence of Chinese forces around Japanese territories, including near the disputed Senkaku Islands and during drills near Taiwan. North Korea's accelerated missile development also contributes to Tokyo's security concerns.
The move to acquire modern long-range strike capabilities, including hypersonic missiles, is part of Japan's five-year defense buildup program (2023-2027) and represents a significant departure from its post-World War II self-defense-only policy. Japan aims to increase its defense spending to 2% of its GDP by fiscal year 2027, or potentially earlier. China has criticized Japan's increased defense budget, interpreting it as a step towards 'remilitarization.'
5 Comments
Mariposa
Finally, Japan is taking its security seriously! This is a necessary step.
BuggaBoom
The need for a strong defense against threats like China and North Korea is undeniable. However, fast-tracking hypersonic missiles might be perceived as overly aggressive, potentially backfiring by increasing hostility rather than ensuring peace.
Eugene Alta
Essential move against growing regional threats. Good to see strong action.
Kyle Broflovski
Dangerous path towards remilitarization. This will only escalate tensions.
Eric Cartman
It's understandable that Japan wants to protect itself given rising tensions, but abandoning its post-war defense posture so quickly could have serious, unforeseen consequences for regional stability. The historical context here is critical.