Tokyo, Japan** – Facing its worst recruitment year ever, Japan’s military is proposing a record-breaking budget focused on artificial intelligence (AI) and automation to address a severe understaffing issue. The Ministry of Defense has unveiled a defense budget request for the next fiscal year, seeking to allocate 18 billion yen ($123 million) specifically for an AI surveillance system to enhance military base security.
In the year leading up to March 31, Japan’s Self Defense Forces (SDF) enrolled just under 10,000 new sailors, soldiers, and air personnel—only half of its recruitment target. This shortfall has heightened concerns as Japan aims to bolster its defenses against China’s growing military power.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced a significant increase in defense spending in 2022, aiming to double the budget to strengthen Japan’s military capabilities. This includes stocking up on missiles, acquiring advanced fighter jets, and establishing a cyber defense force. However, Japan’s falling birth rate has exacerbated recruitment challenges, making it increasingly difficult to maintain the current SDF troop levels at 250,000 personnel.
“As we increase our defensive strength, we need to build an organization that is able to fight in new ways,” the defense ministry stated in its annual budget request. The proposed budget calls for a 6.9% increase in defense spending, totaling a record 8.5 trillion yen ($59 billion).
To address the recruitment shortfall, the ministry plans to introduce various technological advancements. In addition to the AI surveillance system, the budget includes funding for more unmanned drones and the purchase of three highly-automated air defense warships costing 314 billion yen. These ships will require only 90 sailors, less than half the crew needed for current vessels.
Japan’s strategic pivot towards AI and automation comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions. According to Newsweek, the U.S. is also ramping up its military presence in the Middle East due to increasing tensions between Iran and Israel, highlighting the global trend of bolstering military capabilities through advanced technology.
Moreover, Japan’s focus on AI and automation aligns with broader global trends. As reported by NPR, countries like Ukraine are experiencing economic disruption due to military conscription, while China faces a demographic crisis that could impact its future workforce, as noted by Sky News.
Japan’s investment in AI and automation is not only a response to current recruitment challenges but also a strategic move to ensure the country remains capable of defending itself amid evolving global threats. The integration of advanced technology into military operations signifies a shift towards modern warfare, where fewer human resources are required to maintain robust defense capabilities.