Japan’s Ministry of Defense has submitted a $52.9 billion budget request for the fiscal year 2024 that outlines the country’s military modernization objectives.
The spending plan, which requires the Finance Ministry’s approval, details the Japanese Armed Forces’ wish to strengthen its warfare capabilities across several domains, Defense News reported.
The shopping list includes the acquisition of two warships for $2.6 billion. The vessels will be equipped with ballistic missile defense capabilities, and are scheduled for commissioning in 2027 and 2028.
The Japanese Navy is also asking $1.2 billion to build a new class of frigates.
Additionally, the request allocates funds to develop Type 12 missiles, high-velocity glide projectiles and hypersonic missiles. Notably, Japan wants to purchase standoff weapons from Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace and Lockheed Martin.
The Defense Ministry’s upgrade plans for the Japan Air Self-Defense Force include the procurement of eight F-35A jets worth $939.3 million and seven F-35Bs for $862.3 million. The pricier version features short-takeoff-and-vertical-landing capability.
Japan will also update its fleet of F-15J and F-2 combat planes to enable them to fire Type 12 missiles.
To modernize its ground forces, the ministry will spend $561 million on new combat vehicles and self-propelled artillery systems and another $215.4 million to buy 28 wheeled armored personnel carriers from Finland’s Patria.
