Japan has historically maintained strict restrictions on defense spending and arms exports. These limitations, alongside its "exclusive self-defense" (senshu bouei) policies, have hindered the development of a competitive and robust defense industrial base. However, Japan's 2022 National Defense Strategy emphasized the need to strengthen this sector, prompting the government to gradually relax restrictions on defense equipment exports to create more opportunities for international cooperation.
Focus on Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS)
A key area of interest for Japan is the development of
uncrewed aerial systems (UAS). The Ministry of Defense has announced plans to
invest JPY 1 trillion (approximately USD 7.1 billion) over the next five years
in UAS development. This aligns with similar initiatives by the U.S. Department
of Defense, such as the Replicator initiative and the Air Force’s Collaborative
Combat Aircraft program. Beyond military platforms, Japan’s advanced
electronics industry, particularly in subcomponents like electro-optical
sensors, presents significant potential for U.S.-Japan co-development and
co-production efforts. Despite ongoing governmental, industrial, and economic
challenges, these sectors offer promising avenues for collaboration.
Addressing the Challenges of Defense Industrial
Cooperation
Defense industrial cooperation is crucial for bolstering the
U.S.-Japan alliance. According to Moyuru Tanaka, a visiting fellow with the
CSIS Japan Chair, the shipbuilding industry holds substantial potential for
collaboration to enhance military readiness and support Japan’s defense
industrial base.
Security Challenges in the Indo-Pacific Region
The Indo-Pacific region, a key driver of the global economy
and home to over half of the world’s population, faces numerous security
challenges. These include large military forces, nuclear capabilities, and
diverse political and economic systems that do not always align with universal
values. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has highlighted how easily the rules
governing the international order can be breached, raising concerns about the
potential for similar crises in the Indo-Pacific.
Building a Resilient Defense Base
To address these challenges, Japan must develop a mutually
beneficial strategic relationship with the United States and other allies and
partners. Cooperation will be essential in building a strong and resilient
defense industrial base, including in the shipbuilding sector, to ensure
military readiness and support a free and open Indo-Pacific.
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