
The government is addressing the shortage of Self-Defense Forces (SDF) members by proposing various initiatives to improve their pay and living conditions. It was noted that some SDF personnel retire at relatively younger ages than those in the private sector, leading to a need for measures to support them in finding new job opportunities.
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, a former defense minister, is leading efforts to implement measures aimed at enhancing the welfare of SDF members. The new policy direction includes measures to assist retiring SDF members in securing new jobs and alleviate their financial concerns about the future. Additionally, the proposal suggests courting industries outside the public sector, such as real estate, elderly care, security, and construction, to hire retiring SDF personnel.
To combat the perennial shortage of around 20,000 SDF members, the government aims to raise the retirement age for SDF officers and improve the living conditions for SDF members. Measures such as providing single-occupancy accommodations for on-base living and enhancing living quarters for Maritime SDF members at sea are part of the proposed initiatives. Furthermore, the proposal includes plans to ensure internet access for MSDF crew members on key vessels by fiscal 2027.