Japan Defense Activities, FY2023

Rising National Spending to Enable Transformational Growth of the Japanese Defense Industry

This report provides a snapshot of the Japanese defense industry. It analyzes Japan's Defense Buildup Program (FY2023 to FY2027) and presents an in-depth breakdown of the budget appropriation for FY2023. The study examines the budget allotment for defense-related procurement and research and development (R&D) activities and highlights the technology trends and leading segments.

The report identifies and analyzes key factors driving and restraining the Japanese defense industry growth. It examines Japan's national policies and the shifting geopolitical climate to determine industry trends and identify emerging opportunities for industry participants. The study provides a snapshot of the competitive landscape, encompassing foreign and domestic participants active in the industry.

Japan announced substantially increasing the national defense spending through FY2027 amid heightened perceptions of imminent threat. Rapid deployment of advanced defense and counter-strike capabilities is a priority. Re-establishing domestic defense manufacturing is a key focus area, as the country emphasizes self-reliance and defense export promotion. Japan's growing international defense and security partnerships and defense-related bilateral relationships will create market expansion opportunities for domestic industry participants in allied nations and vice versa.

The study emphasizes the need for collaborations among the defense and commercial industries and academia to accelerate new product development. Synergistic partnership focusing on technology share and transfer between foreign and domestic companies is critical for industry growth. In addition, government support schemes, such as grants and tax incentives, will open the Japanese defense industry to new participants and enhance its manufacturing capabilities.