Japan set to approve new ships and missiles but defer legal questions
Two new destroyers will fill the gap left by a canceled deployment of Aegis Ashore, while improved missiles will offer the ability to strike from beyond the range of enemies.
Lockheed exec says Aegis radar 'fully capable' for MSDF vessels
Given that a sea-based option is now more likely, some LDP lawmakers have raised concern that interoperability between the Maritime Self-Defense Force and the U.S. Navy may be undermined.
Japan considering use of large ship as alternative to land-based Aegis system
Japan is considering using a large ship as an alternative to the scrapped U.S.-made Aegis Ashore missile defense system as part of efforts to counter missile threats posed by North Korea, according to government sources. The sources said Saturday the Defense Ministry is mulling the ...
Sea-based missile defense may cost Japan double price of Aegis Ashore
Delays and higher costs could rekindle support for an onshore plan, as Japan's public finances are strained by debt.
Japan says it will decide on Aegis Ashore alternative by year's end
In a call with his U.S. counterpart, Japan's defense minister also indicated a willingness to hold a meeting involving defense chiefs from the four "Quad" countries.
Japan strike capability could stoke simmering tensions in Asia
Experts say the move could drag Japan into a dangerous arms race with China that might force it to consider the acquisition of offensive weapons.
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.
As Japan mulls missile defense, Raytheon lobbies for Lockheed’s radar deal
Under Abe, the nation has strengthened its military to deter threats from neighbors, including North Korea and China.
Japan needs fight-style reform
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 ...
Is the Aegis Ashore cancellation a mixed blessing?
Japan has a chance to ensure its national security policy institutions are better equipped to respond to the rapidly evolving security environment.
Cash and politics may stymie any push for strike capabilities in Japan
The ruling Liberal Democratic Party is discussing the issue and is expected to put forward its conclusions later this month.
