Japan to Provide Mongolia with Radar System

Japan has announced plans to supply Mongolia’s air force with an advanced air traffic control radar system, marking its first security assistance to the strategically positioned nation between China and Russia.

The initiative, part of Japan’s defense aid framework aimed at strengthening security ties with like-minded nations, will cost 1.3 billion yen ($8.7 million), according to the Japanese Foreign Ministry.

Japanese Ambassador to Mongolia Masaru Igawahara and Mongolian Defense Minister Sandag Byambatsogt formalized the agreement earlier this month in Ulaanbaatar.

While the radar system will take several years to become operational, it is expected to enhance Mongolia’s situational awareness and airspace security.

This move follows a defense equipment transfer agreement signed between the two nations in December, which came into effect the following month. Mongolia is now the 16th country to establish such a partnership with Japan.

The radar project aims to improve Mongolia’s air traffic control capabilities and contribute to regional security under the principles of international law.

Japan and Mongolia, sharing core values such as democracy and the rule of law, are advancing their cooperation under a "special strategic partnership for peace and prosperity."

Japan launched its defense aid program in 2023 to promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region amid growing concerns over China's military expansion.

Under the draft budget for fiscal 2025, Tokyo has proposed increasing its security assistance budget to 8.1 billion yen, a significant rise from 5 billion yen allocated for fiscal 2024.