Global arms firms presented their wares in Tokyo.
On Nov. 28, various arms firms, such as Lockheed Martin, Arconic, BAE Systems, Northrop Grumman, showcased their technology and products at the Japan International Aerospace Exhibition.
The Japanese government is planning to buy billions of dollars of U.S. military kit. The kit includes at least 40 new Lockheed Martin F-35 stealth fighters, which are worth around $4 billion.
The new F-35s will replace 100 aging F-15 fighter jets. Previously, Japan had bought 42 of the same aircraft. Together, Japan will have around 100 stealth fighters.
Andy Latham, head of business development for military aviation at BAE Systems said the company sees an opportunity for more F-35 orders.
A new plan for Japan’s military procurement will be released in December, and a separate paper will outline the country’s defense goals.
Japan has a self-imposed military spending limit of 1 percent of its GDP. However, even though its military spending is already approaching the limit, it’s expected its defense spending will increase.
The exhibition runs from Nov.28 to Nov.30.
