Japan seeks record US$55.6 billion defence budget, with AI focus

TOKYO: Japan's defence ministry requested a record budget of 8.9 trillion yen (US$55.6 billion) on Monday (Aug 31) as Tokyo looks to artificial intelligence to speed up decision-making in the face of a tense security environment.The final budget reportedly could reach 10 trillion yen as Tokyo undergoes a sweeping upgrade of its defence in order to navigate growing tension with neighbours such as China, North Korea and Russia.The latest request focuses on countering "new ways of warfare", with an emphasis on the use of AI, drones and standoff missiles.Under the request, the ministry hopes to implement an AI-powered decision support system. It also wants to procure low-cost drones that can work in tandem with long-range missiles to neutralise enemy assets.The ministry said it plans to develo