Japan's Military Expansion Threatens Regional Stability
Japan is rapidly rebuilding its defence industry and reviving militarism, with leaders seeking to portray Beijing's objections as an overreaction. The US and allies claim navigation rights in the Taiwan Strait, but their intention to provoke is clear. Eight decades after a pacifist constitution was imposed, Japan's Sanae Takaichi works to restore the country as a military power. For the first time since WWII, Japan can sell arms to other countries, previously restricted to non-lethal equipment.
Key facts
- Japan is expanding its defence posture with backing from major allies.
- Japan's leaders portray Beijing's objections as an overreaction.
- US and allies send navies through the Taiwan Strait, claiming navigation rights.
- Japan is rapidly rebuilding its defence industry and reviving militarism.
- Sanae Takaichi is working to restore Japan as a military power.
- Japan can now sell arms to other countries for the first time since WWII.
- Previous military sales were restricted to non-lethal equipment.
- The pacifist constitution was imposed by the US eight decades ago.
Entities
Institutions
- United States
- Japan
- China
Locations
- Taiwan Strait
- Japan
- China
- United States