Japan is planning to expand its Official Security Assistance (OSA) program to supply defense equipment and materials to the armed forces of at least 12 countries in fiscal year 2026, up from 8 countries the previous year. The information was disclosed by people familiar with the matter on August 23.
This move comes as Japan grows increasingly concerned about China's rising military presence in the Indo-Pacific region. The expansion of the beneficiary list signals Tokyo's intensified efforts to bolster security cooperation with like-minded countries, aiming to build a broader regional security network.
The OSA program is designed by Japan to assist partner nations, particularly developing countries, in strengthening their defense capabilities. This expansion reflects Japan's commitment to playing a more active role in upholding the rules-based international order and addressing shared security challenges.
Specific details regarding the list of beneficiary countries for fiscal year 2026 have not been officially disclosed. However, analysts suggest that the selection of recipients will be based on strategic importance and their cooperative relations with Japan in security and defense sectors.
This is a significant step in Japan's security policy, indicating a shift from its traditional defensive posture to a more proactive role in regional security cooperation.
