Japan weighs railway upgrades as part of defense spending push

Japan is considering counting railway infrastructure improvements toward its defense spending as it seeks to strengthen military logistics and respond to U.S. pressure for higher security budgets, Kyodo News reported Sunday, citing government sources.

The proposal would be part of revisions to three national security documents expected by year-end. Railway upgrades would help Japan's Self-Defense Forces transport military equipment and supplies during emergencies.

Officials are also considering a broader definition of security spending that would include investments in artificial intelligence, space technology and energy infrastructure. The changes could help Japan raise its reported defense spending as a percentage of gross domestic product without relying solely on additional military expenditures.

Japan currently targets defense and related spending equivalent to 2% of GDP. The United States has urged allies to increase military spending to 3.5% of GDP.

Under the proposal, railway projects could include adding tracks, expanding tunnels to accommodate military equipment and maintaining lightly used routes considered strategically important. Japan has drawn lessons from Ukraine, where rail networks have played a critical role in moving supplies during Russia's invasion.

Japan's existing defense-related infrastructure program focuses on airports, seaports and connecting roads. The government has designated 24 airports and 33 seaports for improvements.

For the fiscal year ending March 2027, Japan allocated 225 billion yen ($1.42 billion) for related infrastructure projects, including 118.4 billion yen for roads, 53.4 billion yen for seaports and 53.2 billion yen for airports.