Aircraft
North Korean Threat Prompts New Japan, Korean Buys
Japan will acquire new air defense systems, while Korea wants more F-35s.
Japan is boosting its missile defense, including two Aegis Ashore radar systems. (Photo: Lockheed Martin)
Japan is boosting its missile defense, including two Aegis Ashore radar systems. (Photo: Lockheed Martin)

Responding to the increased missile threat from North Korea, Japan has crafted a record $46 billion defense budget. This is the sixth consecutive annual increase in its defense spending and includes new acquisitions. Meanwhile, the Republic of Korea will reportedly exercise an option to buy at least 20 more Lockheed Martin F-35s, again in response to North Korean belligerence.