Japan's Historic $59.1 Billion Defense Budget Request for FY 2025

The Japanese Ministry of Defense (MoD) has made its largest defense budget request in history, seeking $59.1 billion (8.5 trillion yen) for the fiscal year 2025, which begins in April. This unprecedented budget is a clear signal of Japan's intent to bolster its military capabilities amid growing security concerns in the region, particularly in response to rising military threats from China, North Korea, and Russia.

A significant portion of the budget is dedicated to enhancing Japan's maritime defenses, with a special focus on the construction of three new multirole frigates, known as "New FFMs." The MoD has allocated approximately $2.2 billion (314 billion yen) for these ships, marking an ambitious leap in Japan's naval procurement strategy. Typically, the MoD has budgeted for the construction of two frigates per year, but the decision to fund three in a single year underscores the urgency of strengthening Japan's maritime forces.

The New FFMs are set to surpass the capabilities of the existing Mogami-class frigates, currently in service with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). With a standard displacement of 4,800 tons, these new frigates will be larger and more heavily armed than their predecessors, which have a displacement of 3,900 tons. Despite their increased size, the crew complement for the New FFMs will remain at 90, similar to the Mogami-class, thanks to advancements in automation and design efficiency.

The New FFMs will feature enhanced operational capabilities, including the ability to carry longer-range missiles, improved anti-submarine warfare systems, and upgraded sensors for various maritime operations. Notably, these frigates will be equipped with an improved version of the Type 12 Surface-to-Ship Missile (SSM) and a new ship-to-air guided missile, enhancing their offensive and defensive reach. With these upgrades, the New FFMs are expected to operate closer to missile frigates (FFGs) in terms of capability, positioning Japan's navy as a formidable force in regional waters.

Beyond the frigate program, the MoD's budget request also includes significant investments in other key areas of maritime defense. For instance, $558.5 million (80.8 billion yen) has been earmarked for the development and testing of two new Aegis system-equipped vessels (ASEVs). These ships, which are designed as an alternative to the canceled Aegis Ashore ballistic missile defense system, will be significantly larger and more advanced than Japan's current Maya-class Aegis destroyers. The ASEVs are expected to play a crucial role in Japan's integrated air and missile defense (IAMD) system.

Another notable allocation is the $12.4 million (1.8 billion yen) set aside for the continued modification of the Izumo-class helicopter carrier, JS Izumo. This project aims to transform the ship into an aircraft carrier capable of deploying F-35B fighter jets, thereby significantly enhancing Japan's power projection capabilities, particularly in response to China's expanding naval presence in the Pacific.

The MoD is also focusing on strengthening Japan's logistical and transport capabilities. A budget of $140.5 million (21.1 billion yen) has been requested to acquire new transport vessels, which are crucial for ensuring the mobility and readiness of Japan's Self-Defense Forces, especially in the remote Nansei island chain.

Furthermore, Japan is advancing its underwater warfare capabilities with a $20.8 million (3 billion yen) request to develop a new submarine-launched missile, set to be deployed on the latest Taigei-class submarines. This missile, designed for both anti-ship and land-attack roles, represents a significant step forward in Japan's stand-off defense strategy.

In addition to these programs, the MoD's budget request includes funds for acquiring ship-based unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), researching vertical launch systems for submarines, and developing high-power laser systems for shipboard defense against drones and other small threats. These initiatives reflect Japan's commitment to maintaining technological superiority in an increasingly contested maritime environment.

Japan's defense budget request for FY 2025 is not just a reflection of current security challenges but also a clear indicator of the nation's strategic direction in the coming years. By investing heavily in advanced naval platforms, missile defense systems, and cutting-edge technologies, Japan is positioning itself to respond effectively to the complex and evolving threats in the Indo-Pacific region.