Japan plans defense spending to 2% GDP by 2027

Japan is significantly increasing its defense budget, aiming to reach 2% of its GDP by 2027, a move reflecting its response to regional security threats, particularly from China and North Korea. Defense Minister Gen Nakatani announced that the current fiscal year's budget will be approximately 8.5 trillion yen (around $59 billion), with total defense-related spending nearing $70 billion. This marks a shift from Japan's longstanding pacifist stance, which traditionally capped defense spending at about 1% of GDP. The new policy aligns with U.S. calls for allies to take on greater defense responsibilities, with some U.S. officials suggesting Japan should consider increasing its military spending even further to 3% of GDP. The increase is part of a broader strategy to bolster Japan's military capabilities, including the acquisition of counterstrike capabilities for direct action against threats. Concerns about the expansion of Japan's military budget have been expressed both domestically and internationally, signaling a pivotal change in its defense posture.