Japan needs drastic boost in defense spending: ruling party

Draft 2021 white paper cites risks over Taiwan and climate change for first time

An F-35A stealth fighter takes flight: The LDP's recommendations include bolstering the domestic defense industry. (Photo courtesy of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force)

JUNNOSUKE KOBARA, TAKUYA MIZOROGI and RINTARO TOBITA, Nikkei staff writers

May 25, 2021 01:46 JST

TOKYO -- Policymakers in Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party will push for a steep increase in the country's defense spending and capabilities as Tokyo eyes China's military buildup and tensions in the Taiwan Strait.