Japan’s Defense Ministry has requested a record 8.9 trillion yen ($55.6 billion) for the next fiscal year as it prepares for changing military threats. 

The plan focuses heavily on drones, artificial intelligence and long-range weapons, including attack drones and hypersonic missiles. 

Japan also wants to develop an AI system that can help military commanders make faster decisions and establish a Defense Ministry cloud for secure communications. 

The buildup is part of Japan’s broader effort to strengthen its defenses as tensions increase with China and other regional powers while addressing challenges from its shrinking population, the AP has reported.

The proposed budget will undergo further review before Japan’s government finalizes its defense spending plans later this year.