military

Japan Press Service Co., Ltd. is the only news agency providing information of progressive, democratic movements in Japan

4.9 trillion yen for FY 2006 military budget

The Koizumi government is seeking a fiscal 2006 budget that will provide more tax revenues for military build-up, while cutting back on funds for public services.

Ministries and government agencies submitted their budget request to the Finance Ministry by August 31.

The Defense Agency requests about 4.9 trillion yen, up 1.1 percent from the FY 2005 budget, that includes 150 billion yen (a 25.2 percent increase) for a missile defense system.

The agency has launched a Japan-U.S. joint development project for the next-generation MD system on the grounds of the need for a "quick response to future threats." It also "responds flexibly" to the U.S. policy of weapons acquisition and "spiral development" under which incomplete missiles will be deployed before being tested.

This will not only drag Japan into an unlimited U.S. arms race, but will threaten peace in Asia and the rest of the world.

The Defense Agency will strengthen the Self-Defense Forces' structure for overseas missions by establishing a quick response force to integrate exercises, command, and operations abroad as well as by purchasing a new helicopter destroyer for 106 billion yen with long-term stationing in the Indian Ocean in mind.

The Defense Agency also requests 236.8 billion yen to support the presence of U.S. troops in Japan for the so-called "sympathy budget." -- Akahata, September 1, 2005