For decades, Japan's military partner of choice has been the United States. The reasons are well known: The influence of the Occupation after World War II and the adoption of an American-style Constitution that put strong restrictions on Japan's ability to maintain any kind of martial force.

Hand in hand with this, Japan has come to depend heavily on the U.S. for protection and support in foreign affairs. Indeed, it is difficult to imagine closer allies in military terms than Japan and the United States. Despite some opposition, this alliance has served Japan well over the past 60 years.

Recently, however, the Defense Agency was upgraded to a full-fledged ministry. This long overdue step in recognizing the size and status of Japan's modern military signals the rise of a more independent Japan.