Japan to Join U.S. 'Golden Dome' Missile Defense Initiative, Anticipates Missile Production Requests

Japan plans to join the U.S. 'Golden Dome' missile defense initiative, aiming to enhance protection against hypersonic threats from China and Russia. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is expected to announce this during a March 19 meeting with former President Trump. While details of Japan's role remain unclear, Tokyo anticipates possible requests to co-develop or produce missiles amid U.S. munitions depletion from conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine. Japan is also increasing defense spending and expanding its military capabilities.