Red tape ties up billions [of yen] due from U.S.
“As long as we are dependent on special equipment made by the United States, we simply have to accept it,” said a senior Defense Agency official. “The problem is especially vexing since some things can’t be resolved only by efforts in Japan.”
A big reason for the delays is that the program is part of the huge U.S. defense procurement system. Delays arise due to wars or policy changes that decide which buyers get delivery priority.
Delays also arise if the equipment includes numerous parts, which are each subject to proper paperwork. Missing documents, of course, further stall the final accounting process.
I guess I just can’t avoid this kind of crap :> It’s everywhere!