Japan’s military build-up hit by US missile delays and domestic parts shortages

AI Summary

Japan’s military expansion faces delays in US missile deliveries and shortages in domestic manufacturing, raising concerns about operational readiness. The setbacks could complicate Tokyo’s force expansion goals and forthcoming defence spending priorities.

Japan’s push to strengthen its armed forces is running into headwinds that money alone cannot resolve, analysts warn, pointing to prolonged delays in US weapon shipments and domestic manufacturing bottlenecks that undermine operational readiness. The issues have cast doubt on Tokyo’s ability to meet ambitious force expansion targets as the government prepares to overhaul its defence and security spending priorities. Observers say these setbacks highlight the need for Japan to build up its...