Japan's Cabinet approved a record defense budget exceeding 9 trillion yen for the upcoming fiscal year, aiming to enhance military capabilities amid rising regional tensions. The budget marks a 9.4% increase from the previous year and is part of a five-year plan to double arms spending to 2% of GDP. Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi emphasized the need for military buildup while maintaining Japan's peace-loving stance. The budget requires parliamentary approval and includes significant investments in missiles and unmanned systems to bolster coastal defense.