Japan's annual defense white paper, approved by the Cabinet, describes China as the country's most significant strategic challenge, citing growing concern over the increasing presence of Chinese naval forces in the Pacific Ocean.
The 598-page document outlines Japan's military priorities and analyzes regional security developments. It also includes reader-friendly features, such as illustrations and multilingual video links, as the government seeks public support for increased defense spending and military recruitment.
The report emphasizes the importance of developing Japan's own unmanned combat systems, particularly for coastal defense, alongside long-range missile capabilities. It notes that many countries are accelerating drone development, making adaptation to new methods of warfare a strategic necessity.
Earlier this year, Japan's defense acquisition agency selected four companies from 38 applicants to participate in a fast-track drone development program. The prototypes are scheduled to undergo testing by the Japanese navy before a final selection is made.
Several Japanese companies are also expanding drone research. Toshiba recently announced plans to jointly develop combat drones with startup Prodrone, reflecting Tokyo's broader push to strengthen domestic defense technology.
Officials believe unmanned systems could help address Japan's shrinking military workforce caused by the country's aging and declining population. However, experts caution that building a fully domestic drone industry will be difficult because Japan's commercial drone market remains heavily dependent on Chinese imports.
The defense paper also highlights growing concern over China's expanding military activities, including increased naval operations in the Pacific and rapid development of its nuclear and missile capabilities. Japan has established a dedicated unit to study defense strategy in the Pacific and reinforce its military posture in response.
According to the report, Chinese military aircraft directed radar systems at Japanese aircraft during carrier operations near southwestern Japan last December, while two Chinese aircraft carriers were observed near Iwo Jima in June, raising further security concerns in Tokyo.
The document also identifies closer military cooperation between China and Russia, including joint bomber flights and naval operations near Japan, as a serious national security concern. North Korea's advancing missile program, including hypersonic weapons and expanding military ties with Russia, is described as another urgent challenge.
To address these threats, Japan is increasing investment in defense manufacturing, scientific research, and dual-use technologies. Although many established Japanese companies have traditionally avoided weapons production, an increasing number of startups are entering the defense sector.
Recent policy changes allowing exports of lethal defense equipment are expected to further strengthen Japan's defense industry. The country has already signed major defense agreements, including the joint development and transfer of 11 Mogami-class frigates to Australia, while discussions continue over similar cooperation with New Zealand and the transfer of used destroyers to the Philippines.
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