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Japan’s build-up of a “counterstrike capacity” creates the potential for Tokyo to go on the offensive and is hard to reconcile with a pacifist constitution. Photo: Reuters
Opinion
Editorial
by SCMP Editorial
Editorial
by SCMP Editorial

Japan must ease fears over military build-up

  • Nearly doubling of Tokyo defence budget comes soon after talks with China raised regional hopes of a decrease in tensions
SCMP Editorial
SCMP Editorial
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A meeting between the leaders of China and Japan in November raised hopes of easing tensions between the two countries. They agreed to be “partners, not threats”, strengthening mutual trust and coordination. But a month later, Tokyo approved a controversial military overhaul, a landmark branded “highly dangerous” by Beijing.

Japan intends to almost double its annual defence budget over the next five years, rising to US$65.4 billion in 2027.

It is the biggest increase since the second world war and will make Japan the third highest spender on its military, after the US and China.

Funds will be used to buy hundreds of US-made Tomahawk missiles and develop fighter jets and drones. The army, navy and air force will come under a central command.

The building of a “counterstrike capacity” targeting enemies preparing attacks on Japan is especially worrying. It creates the potential for Tokyo to go on the offensive and is hard to reconcile with a pacifist constitution.

Japan insists the measures are consistent with its long-standing “defence-oriented” approach. It argues they are needed to respond to geopolitical developments.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, North Korea’s missile tests and disputes with China over Taiwan and the Diaoyu Islands have boosted public support in Japan for the move.

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Japan approves largest military build-up in decades citing Chinese security threats

Japan approves largest military build-up in decades citing Chinese security threats
But it will heighten tensions at a time when they need to be calmed. The United States welcomed the new strategy adopted by its ally. Russia and North Korea, however, have joined China in condemning it.

Given Japan’s history, it is not surprising the policy has been greeted with suspicion. It creates a greater risk of confrontation and may fuel a regional arms race.

Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi is due to visit Beijing early next year. Tokyo must explain its military build-up and try to ease concerns.

China is described as “the greatest strategic challenge ever” to Japan in documents underpinning the reforms. But China is also Japan’s biggest trading partner.

The two countries have shared interests and a good relationship between them is essential for peace and stability in the region.

Japan should proceed cautiously with its military plans and not let them prevent the building of closer, stronger ties with China.

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