DefenseChange will allow for easier planning and help boost productionGround Self-Defense Force tanks unleash rounds during the Fuji Firepower Exercise in Japan's Shizuoka prefecture on June 7.RYOTA OGATAAugust 7, 2026 04:26 JSTTOKYO -- Japan's Defense Ministry will start notifying contractors in advance of the volume of equipment it plans to procure to help them plan production over the medium to long term, Nikkei has learned.