Boosting Missile Production with Japanese Factories
The US plan to use Japanese factories to increase the production of Patriot anti-aircraft defense missiles, which are used by Ukraine to defend against Russian attacks, is facing delays due to a critical component shortage manufactured by Boeing, according to four sources cited by Reuters.
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Mitsubishi Heavy Industries in Japan (MHI) already produces around 30 PAC-3 missiles annually under license from defense contractor Lockheed Martin and could increase this number to around 60, according to two Japanese government officials and two industry sources, as reported by Reuters.
The US hopes to increase production from around 500 per year to over 750 per year globally.
Challenges in Rocket Production
A familiar source with the program stated that expansion in Japan will not be possible without additional supplies of a rocket component that guides them in the final stages of flight. Officials and industry sources have also confirmed this. “It could take several years before MHI can increase production,” said one industry source, who, like the others, refused to be identified because they are not authorized to speak to the media.
The production issue in Japan highlights the challenges Washington faces in connecting industrial aid from its global allies in its complex supply chains. Boeing began expanding its rocket guidance component factory in the United States last year to increase production by 30%, despite the challenges faced in the supply chain.
Expanding Production of Patriot Interceptors
Last year, Boeing announced that they had just delivered their 5,000th Patriot interceptor, although the total number produced was not disclosed. Lockheed Martin, the main contractor for the interceptor, has stated that they will be increasing production of Patriot interceptors in the US from 500 to 650 by 2027, with each unit costing approximately 4 million dollars.
Challenges in Japan
While there is a high demand for Patriot interceptors in Japan, expanding production beyond the current 60 units per year would require Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) to develop additional capacity. In their 2022 military spending plan, the Japanese government has announced financial assistance for defense companies looking to expand production.
Government Support
These subsidies will only apply to equipment intended for the Self-Defense Forces, as part of the government’s efforts to enhance their defense capabilities. This move comes in response to Russia’s recent increase in import tariffs on goods from “hostile countries.”
Japan’s Role in Manufacturing PAC-3 Missiles
Japan has been playing a significant role in the production of PAC-3 missiles, a crucial component of the missile defense system used by the United States and its allies in the Indo-Pacific region. This partnership has not only strengthened the defense capabilities of Japan but has also contributed to the security of the entire region.
Financial Burden on Japan
However, the cost of manufacturing these missiles has been a concern for Japan, with sources indicating that the country may need financial assistance from the US to establish a new factory for PAC-3 production. This could potentially cost tens of millions of dollars or even more, putting a strain on Japan’s defense budget.
Importance of Indo-Pacific Region
The Indo-Pacific region holds great strategic importance for the United States, and the collaboration with allies like Japan is crucial for maintaining deterrence and readiness in the region. Lockheed Martin, a key player in the defense industry, emphasized the significance of strategic capabilities in the region to support deterrence efforts.
Challenges in Defense Cooperation between Japan and the United States
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Upcoming Meeting between Japanese and U.S. Foreign and Defense Ministers
The Foreign and Defense Ministers of Japan and the United States are set to meet this month in Tokyo for discussions expected to include deepening industrial cooperation in the defense sector. The Patriot project is seen as a key part of this effort. Even with the help of allies, supply chain blockages complicate U.S. efforts to meet Ukraine’s demand for ammunition, including air defense systems that can thwart Russian attacks.
In the deadliest wave of airstrikes in recent months, a Russian rocket hit a children’s hospital in July, killing at least 41 civilians. In December 2023, Japan relaxed its military export rules to allow them to assist in replenishing missile stocks.
Strengthening Defense Industry Cooperation Between US and Japan
Former US Ambassador to Japan, Rahm Emanuel, hailed the decision to boost defense industry ties with Japan as a “historic move”. He has been a key advocate for closer military-industrial links with Japan, which could alleviate pressure on US defense contractors. President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida agreed in April to deepen cooperation in the defense industry.
In an opinion piece published in the Wall Street Journal, two months after the meeting, Emanuel described the downsized US military-industrial complex as a “weak link” that has been exposed by the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.