Japan to acquire two small aircraft carriers by 2008

Japan has reportedly set aside a large part of its defence budget for the creation of two aircraft carriers in the same league as the British and Spainish V/STOL vessels. The first of the two is to be laid down during 2004, the second 2005 for entry to service expected during 2007-2008 time frame. The carriers are expected to be used for operations by small aircraft in the AV-8B+ class or possibly by JSF. Given the carriers role as an offensive weapon platform the move has been criticised by various members of the government who say it is moving away from Japans agreement post-WWII to maintain a purely defensive stand point. The carriers are to be built by a Japanese firm following much discussion with European ship manufacturers, though Spain will reportedly play a large part during development.