The Financial Times reported on the 20th that the US had asked Japan too raise its defense spending to 3.5% of its GDP. The photos show US Secretary of Defense Hegses (left) and Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru. Photo taken in Tokyo on June 30th (2025 representative photo taken)
Tokyo, June 20, 2025
Defense spending Discussions: U.S. and Japan
The United States is reportedly pushing Japan to significantly increase its defense spending, sparking a diplomatic shuffle and raising questions about the countries’ strategic partnership.
- The U.S. has requested that Japan increase its defense spending to 3.5% of its GDP.
- Japan postponed a key meeting with the U.S. amid the discussions.
- A separate report indicates the U.S. wants Japan to increase spending to 5% of GDP.
The United States has asked Japan to elevate its defense spending to 3.5% of its Gross Domestic Product, a request that has reportedly caused ripples in the relationship between the two nations.
According to reports, the U.S. Deputy Minister of Defense,Colby,has been pressing Japan to increase its defense budget in recent weeks. Together, Japan has decided to postpone its participation in the Foreign and Defense Ministerial Meeting (2+2) with the United States, originally scheduled for July 1st. Some speculate the postponement is connected to upcoming elections in Japan.
On June 21st, the Nihon Keizai Shimbun reported that the U.S. Department of defense, in an interview, indicated that they would like Asian allies, including Japan, to raise defense spending to 5% of their GDP.
U.S. government officials have confirmed that Japan has “postponed” the 2+2 meeting, but have not offered any details. A Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs official has stated that the figures of 3.5% or 5% were never discussed with the United States.
The U.S. State Department has declined to comment on the report at a regular press conference, as did the Japanese Embassy in Washington when approached.
The Strategic Roles at Play: Beyond Defense Spending
The current negotiations surrounding Japan’s defense spending are not just about the numbers.They reveal deeper considerations about the strategic roles each nation plays in the Asia-Pacific region.
The U.S. likely wants Japan to increase its defense capabilities to offset China’s growing military influence. The increase would allow Japan to enhance its ability to respond to potential threats.
Meanwhile, Japan’s perspective incorporates its constitutional constraints on military activity and public opinion. Any significant shift needs to be carefully managed, especially before elections. Japan also may be assessing the long-term implications on its economy and international relations.
Why the U.S. is Pressuring Japan
The U.S. is concerned about China’s increasing assertiveness in the East China sea and South China sea, including territorial disputes and its military buildup. Washington sees a stronger, more self-reliant Japan as a crucial ally in deterring Chinese aggression. This includes both financial and military aspects.
The U.S. views Japan as a key partner in its Indo-Pacific strategy. This strategy aims to maintain a rules-based international order, and a strong Japan is seen as critical to achieving this goal. It also reduces the financial burden for the U.S. by enabling Japan to take on regional defense responsibilities.
Japan’s Considerations
Japan’s constitution places limitations on its military. There is significant public debate over how to interpret Article 9, which renounces war. Japan must consider the strategic implications. This balance needs to accommodate the constraints of its constitution, public opinion, and managing relations with neighboring countries.
the Japanese government must weigh the economic implications. A major spending increase could impact other domestic priorities. Japan faces challenges related to an aging population and economic stagnation, it has to evaluate how much it can commit to a larger defense budget.
The Role of the “2+2” Meeting
the “2+2” meeting (a gathering of foreign and defense ministers) is a critical forum.This meeting plays a vital part in coordinating security policies.Its postponement indicates the sensitivity of the current discussions.
Discussions in the “2+2” meeting might cover joint military exercises, technology sharing, and strategic planning. A postponement highlights the need to resolve differences before proceeding with formal security cooperation discussions.
Japan’s Strategic Roles:
- Regional Security: Japan can play a greater role in defending regional stability, especially against China’s assertiveness.
- Technological Advancement: Japan’s advanced technology could enhance U.S. military capabilities.
- Economic Partnership: Japan’s robust economy can help ensure regional economic stability.
What are the potential implications of these developments? japan’s increased defense capability could change the regional balance of power. It could lead Japan to take a more prominent role in regional security matters. It might also trigger reactions from China and North Korea. Therefore, the developments could influence Japan’s relationship with other countries in the region.
Why is this vital now? With tensions in East Asia and the war in ukraine, the U.S. and Japan are considering their security strategies. Japan’s decisions concerning defense spending will be a major indication of their geopolitical direction. Japan’s decisions are critical to the future of the Asia-Pacific region.
Is Japan increasing its military spending? Yes, the news reports indicate that the United States is requesting that Japan increase its defense spending. This is to 3.5% or 5% of its GDP [[2]].
Are these discussions impacting the U.S.-Japan relationship? Yes, the postponement of the “2+2” meeting suggests that these discussions about defense spending are influencing the relationship between the nations [[3]].
