July 8, 2026

Akahata editorial (excerpts)

The government led by Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae as its “strategy for Japan’s growth” plans to invest over 370 trillion yen by fiscal 2024 through public-private partnerships in major products and technologies across 17 industries, such as AI and semiconductors, information and communication, and aerospace. These are the sectors in which large corporations are seeking government support.

The Takaichi government regards the “defense industry” as a key pillar of its growth strategy. Regarding this strategic sector, the government places “small unmanned aircraft” at the top of the investment item list. Stating that drones are “expendables” as shown by the massive use of such aircraft in Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the government intends to establish a “domestic production base capable of mass production at an early stage” and able to supply 80,000 drones by 2030. It also plans to build a “stable” production base for warships and develop dual-use technologies.

A situation in which large amounts of drones are consumed is nothing less than war. Making huge investments based on such an assumption is not the thing a country that renounces war under its constitution should do. Economic growth cannot be achieved if only the military industry and big businesses prosper.

Personal consumption accounts for more than 50% of Japan’s GDP. In order to boost the economy, what is essential is to increase wages, reduce working hours, and improve social security services. The need now is for the government to implement a growth strategy that enriches people’s daily lives.