In a bid to tackle its recruitment challenges, Japan’s defence ministry has announced plans to invest in artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and better living conditions for troops.
The move comes in light of the Self Defense Forces’ (SDF) most disappointing recruitment year, where fewer than 10,000 personnel—comprising sailors, soldiers, and air force members—were enlisted by March 31, 2024, which is only half of the targeted goal.
To address the shortage of recruits, the defence ministry is set to implement AI technology, dedicating 18 billion yen for the development of an AI surveillance system aimed at enhancing security at military bases.
Furthermore, the SDF plans to acquire additional unmanned drones and has ordered three advanced air defence warships requiring only 90 sailors each, which is less than half the crew needed for current vessels.
To optimise troop deployment for frontline duties, the SDF will also outsource certain training and support functions to former SDF personnel and civilian contractors, allowing active members to focus on operational tasks.
With Japan’s declining population of eligible recruits, who are increasingly sought after by higher-paying private sector jobs, the ministry intends to introduce financial incentives and improve living conditions. This includes creating sleeping quarters that offer more privacy and increasing access to social media for service members.
A significant focus of these efforts is to increase the representation of women in the SDF, which currently comprises less than 10% female personnel. Previous attempts to recruit more women have faced setbacks due to high-profile sexual harassment incidents.
To counter this, the military is requesting 16.4 billion yen to construct improved accommodations for female service members, featuring better facilities such as toilets and showers. Additionally, the SDF plans to engage external counsellors to provide support for women and enhance training on harassment prevention.
These initiatives are part of the defence ministry’s annual budget proposal, which seeks a 6.9% increase, bringing the total to a record 8.5 trillion yen (approximately $59 billion).
“As we increase our defensive strength, we need to build an organisation that is able to fight in new ways,” the ministry emphasised.