Japan’s Military Quietly Grows Stronger Amid Rising China Tensions

• Jul 18, 2025

Japan’s Self-Defence Forces (SDF) are far more advanced and capable than many people outside the region assume. While Japan avoids aggressive rhetoric, its defence strategy has changed significantly in response to growing security threats, especially from China.

Although constitutionally limited in how it uses its military, Japan has spent the last decade modernising its forces. In 2023, Japan’s defence budget hit a record JPY6.8 trillion (about $52.5 billion), placing it among the world’s top ten military spenders. Former Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s government had also pledged to double defence spending by 2027, aiming to reach 2% of GDP—closer to NATO standards.

Japan’s Maritime Self-Defence Force (MSDF) is considered one of the most capable navies in Asia, after US forces in the region. Its fleet includes at least 36 destroyers and 24 submarines, many of which are equipped with advanced Aegis systems. The Izumo-class helicopter destroyers are being upgraded to operate F-35B fighter jets, effectively making them aircraft carriers.

The Air Self-Defence Force (JASDF) operates over 300 combat aircraft, including more than 150 F-15Js and nearly 40 F-35As. Japan plans to acquire at least 147 F-35s, giving it the largest fleet outside the US. On land, the Ground Self-Defence Force (JGSDF) has over 450 main battle tanks and is focusing more on mobility and digital warfare. Japan is also expanding its missile capabilities, including US-made Tomahawk cruise missiles and homegrown long-range systems.

These changes are driven by serious concerns over China’s growing military power. The Chinese Navy now has over 370 ships and submarines, and its coast guard often enters waters near the disputed Senkaku Islands, which are controlled by Japan but claimed by China. In 2023 alone, Japan recorded over 170 Chinese intrusions in the area, prompting frequent scrambles of Japanese fighter jets.

Japan is also increasing its military presence on southern islands near Taiwan, such as Yonaguni and Miyako, amid fears that any conflict involving Taiwan would directly affect Japan. While some critics argue Japan still lacks strong offensive power, its 2022 National Security Strategy now allows for counterstrike capabilities—an idea once seen as taboo.

Through stronger alliances and a clearer defence mission, Japan is building a modern, capable force that’s ready to defend its interests in a tense region.