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Japan May Cut F-35 Purchases Amid Defense Budget Dispute

November 13, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

Japan's Ministry of Finance proposes a lower defense budget than expected.
Cuts of up to 50% may affect F-35 fighter purchases.
Defense contractors warned of potential order cuts.
Japan plans to acquire 147 F-35 fighters.

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Strategic Implications

This proposed budget may indicate Japan's struggle to balance defense spending with other priorities, which could impact its military modernization plans. The potential cuts to F-35 purchases suggest a shift in Japan's defense strategy, which may affect Lockheed Martin and other defense contractors, and could influence the country's ability to maintain its planned defense capabilities.

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What Happened

Tokyo Faces Financial Constraints In Ambitious Defense Modernization Plans

Japan’s Ministry of Finance has proposed a five-year defense budget that could lead to cuts of up to 50% in planned aircraft and missile purchases, including Lockheed Martin F-35 fighters. The proposed spending of between 50 trillion and 60 trillion yen ($313 billion to $375 billion) exceeds the current defense budget but falls short of expectations. Japanese defense contractors, including Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Mitsubishi Electric, and Kawasaki Heavy Industries, have been warned of potential order cuts. The decision on the defense budget will be part of Japan’s revision of its core security documents, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, as reported by AeroTime.

Source | Originally Published: November 13, 2026

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