Tuesday's Cabinet decision to extend Japan's logistic support for the U.S.-led antiterror campaign should not come as a surprise, given the continuing threat of terrorism in and around Afghanistan. The decision, however, should be thoroughly discussed in the Diet because it is linked, even if implicitly, to a possible role for the Self-Defense Forces in the event of a war with Iraq.
Five SDF vessels -- two refueling ships and three destroyers escorting them -- are now operating mainly in the Indian Ocean to supply oil and food to U.S. and British forces. Their operation, first extended last May, will continue for another six months through May next year.
Moreover, two more ships -- a transport vessel and a destroyer -- will be added to the flotilla to carry out a new mission: delivering heavy construction equipment, such as bulldozers, for airfield construction in Afghanistan.