Japan’s Strategic Shift in Defense Policy Amid Increased Regional Security Challenges

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida recently attended the review ceremony for the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF). He pledged to increase the defense budget to boost Japan’s defense capabilities. Mr. Kishida referred to the military behaviors of North Korea, China, and Russia as major threats to Japan’s regional security. On Nov. 11, the JASDF held its annual review ceremony. Mr. Kishida delivered a speech, saying, “The country is in the midst of the harshest and most complex security environment it has faced since the end of World War II.” Mr. Kishida accused Russia of a clear violation of international law in its invasion of Ukraine. The Japanese government views North Korea’s nuclear program as a major threat to regional security. In addition, China and Russia’s increasingly aggressive military behavior is also expanding. In December last year, the Kishida administration approved three new strategic documents, aiming to strengthen Japan’s defense capabilities and maintain Japan’s ability to fight back and defend itself....