Japan undertakes one of its biggest strategic shifts since World War II

Japan is carrying out one of its biggest strategic shifts since World War II. Concerns over threats from China, North Korea and Russia are driving major changes in Tokyo’s security policy.

TodayPress TV reports that Japan is preparing to increase defence spending to 2 percent of gross domestic product (GDP), acquire long-range “counterstrike” missiles capable of reaching targets in mainland China, strengthen air and missile defence systems, and build reinforced shelters and tunnels.

However, the most notable change is the growing debate over nuclear deterrence.

Japanese officials and experts are increasingly openly discussing whether Japan should allow US nuclear weapons to be stationed on its territory under agreements similar to the US nuclear-sharing arrangements in Europe.

Japan has not yet decided to develop its own nuclear arsenal. However, the fact that such ideas are now being openly discussed indicates a significant departure from the policy the country has pursued for decades.

Giymat Mahir