# Foreign Military Sales

Japan’s Big-Ticket U.S. Arms Purchases Marred by Delays and Defects — Audit Raises Questions About Strategy and Value

A Japanese Board of Audit review found extensive delays and maintenance problems in U.S. defence equipment bought through the Foreign Military Sales program, even as Tokyo increases spending to bolster its forces. The findings raise questions about the cost‑effectiveness, timing and strategic rationale of Japan’s heavy purchases of American arms.