National Jul 31, 2020
LDP policymakers say Japan should have missile base-striking ability
The team of policymakers came up with the proposal as part of ways to strengthen the country's deterrence against North Korean missile threats.
National Jul 30, 2020
As Japan mulls missile defense, Raytheon lobbies for Lockheed’s radar deal
by Tim Kelly and Yoshifumi Takemoto
Under Abe, the nation has strengthened its military to deter threats from neighbors, including North Korea and China.
Commentary / Japan Jul 13, 2020
Japan needs fight-style reform
by Kuni Miyake
Defense Minister Taro Kono has scrapped a plan to deploy Aegis Ashore, a land-based missile defense system. The decision has triggered a series of debate within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party on Japan’s future defense posture including the issue of “enemy base strike capability.” Kono ...
Commentary / Japan Jul 10, 2020
Is the Aegis Ashore cancellation a mixed blessing?
by Tatsumi Yuki
Japan has a chance to ensure its national security policy institutions are better equipped to respond to the rapidly evolving security environment.
National / Reference | FYI Jul 9, 2020
Cash and politics may stymie any push for strike capabilities in Japan
by Eric Johnston
The ruling Liberal Democratic Party is discussing the issue and is expected to put forward its conclusions later this month.
National Jul 4, 2020
Japan considering deploying two more destroyers to offset scrapped Aegis Ashore plan
The proposal also calls for GSDF personnel to take on some of the duties aboard the new vessels, as the MSDF grapples with a shortage of manpower.
Commentary / Japan Jul 1, 2020
Missile defense in Japan after the Aegis Ashore cancellation
by Yoichiro Sato
Defense Minister Taro Kono’s announcement has opened a Pandora’s box of politically tough questions.
National Jun 30, 2020
The team will discuss alternatives to the Aegis Ashore plan, including enemy base strike capability, and draw up a proposal by the end of July.
National | FOCUS Jun 26, 2020
Japan certain to struggle in seeking alternative to Aegis Ashore
Relying on destroyers for the time being means they cannot be used for defense elsewhere, including the Nansei Islands chain covering Okinawa.
National Jun 25, 2020
Aegis Ashore deployments in Japan scrapped, defense minister confirms
On Wednesday the government started to review its national security policy, focusing on whether the nation should possess the ability to strike enemy bases.
National Jun 24, 2020
LDP lays groundwork to consider equipping Japan with attack capabilities
The move comes after Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said he wanted discussions on national security policy following suspension of the plan to deploy Aegis Ashore.