The Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) has received approval from the US government to purchase nine Boeing KC-46A tankers.
The package, which includes equipment, logistics and services, is valued at $4.1 billion, the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency revealed.
Japan currently operates four of the Boeing 767-200-based aerial refueling aircraft and has two more on order that are expected to arrive in the country by 2025.
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The JASDF also has four KC-767 tankers, converted from passenger aircraft, and two older KC-130 Hercules.
Like other countries bordering Russia and China, Japan has been increasing its defense spending.
The country is a partner of the United Kingdom and Italy in the Global Combat Air Programme, which will produce a sixth-generation fighter.
“The proposed sale will improve Japan’s aerial refueling capability and passenger transport operations, which will contribute to enhanced deterrence of current and future threats in the region,” DSCA said.
