Article

Japan's defense procurement from the U.S. under the Foreign Military Sales program reached approximately 1.38 trillion yen in fiscal 2023, a significant increase from 407.8 billion yen in fiscal 2018. However, an audit revealed delays in the delivery of military equipment worth about $6.9 billion, with at least 118 incomplete cases affecting the readiness of the Japan Self-Defense Forces. In response, the Ministry of Defense plans to enhance oversight of these contracts and improve communication with U.S. officials.