Japanese media: The United States pressures allies to increase defense spending.

According to a report from Japan's Yomiuri Shimbun on February 8, US President Trump signed a presidential order on the 6th, requiring priority to be given to exporting American-made weapons to countries that are actively enhancing their defense capabilities. The report pointed out that this move is aimed at pressuring allies such as Japan to increase defense spending. The report stated that the presidential order emphasizes that American military equipment is world-class and that the US will use weapons exports as a diplomatic tool to the fullest extent. The presidential order sets out the following three criteria for priority exports: investment in domestic defense; playing a significant role in US military operations; contributing to US economic security. However, the presidential order does not specifically mention any countries or regions. US Secretary of Defense Esper has shown a tough stance on allies increasing defense spending. In a speech in December last year, he said, "Countries that do not contribute will face consequences" and "free-riding is not allowed". The report stated that the US may also hope to stimulate its domestic defense industry by selling American-made weapons.