The transformation of U.S. forces overseas, which is now under way, will have a profound effect on Japan's security policies.
Through the reorganization, the Bush administration plans to enhance the rapid-deployment capabilities of U.S. forces to deal with terrorism and other threats. The realignment will also allow U.S. forces to conduct military activities outside areas where they are stationed, and give America's allies expanded military roles.
The administration has changed the Clinton administration's policy of retaining 100,000 U.S. troops in Asia. As for U.S. military forces in Japan, it has proposed to reorganize the command system and remove or consolidate military installations. This represents a de facto reorganization of the Japan-U.S. security system.