Japan will allocate $37 billion to strengthen "counterstrike capabilities," including the purchase of 500 Tomahawk missiles, hypersonic weapons and the modernization of the Type 12

The Japanese government plans to invest 5 trillion yen ($37 billion) to develop "counterattack capabilities" over five years.

Here's What We Know

Japan's defense budget will increase by 56% to $318 billion by 2027. The ruling party has set a long-term goal of doubling defense spending, that is, to 2% of the country's GDP.

$7.33 billion out of $37 billion will be allocated to modernize Japan's Type 12 missile. This will increase the launch range from 200 km to 1,200 km. Besides, it will be modified to be launched from ships and planes.

Japan is investing $0.8 billion to develop hypersonic missiles and weapons to defend remote islands in the southwest. The plan also includes the purchase of drones and underwater drones. In addition, let us not forget that the Land of the Rising Sun wants to buy 500 American Tomahawk cruise missiles.

Source: Kyodo News

Image: The Defense Post