In major defense build-up, Japan lifts restrictions, looks to acquire strike capabilities

The Japanese government approved on Friday ideas that have been under consideration since at least 1956, despite the deterioration of Japan's relations with China and the growing threat that Japan perceives from its much larger neighbour.
Japan had resisted acquiring strike capabilities to avoid going against its post-war constitution, which renounces the right and the means to wage war, and to avoid offending its neighbours.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida stated that Japan needed to stay on a par with other countries' advancements in missile technology at a press conference after the documents were made public.


According to him, a counterstrike capacity that can prevent an attack or force an enemy to cease an attack would become increasingly important in such a harsh environment. The action comes after years of U.S. attempts to convince Japan to take more control over its security, notably as a buffer state against China's growing military capability and threats against Taiwan.

U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan described the change as a daring and historic move to support and protect the Indo-Pacific region's freedom.



Wang Wenbin, a spokesman for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, charged Tokyo with exaggerating the "China danger" to justify its military expansion.

Three documents that make up the national security plan have been revised to include the policy. The program also recommends increasing defence spending from its current ceiling of 1% of GDP to around 2% by 2027.

FAQs:

1. Why is Japan a famous country?
   Japanese culture is known for its politeness and punctuality, incredible inventions, natural attractions like cherry blossoms and cutting-edge technology.
2. What is the conflict between China and Japan about?
   East China Sea islands, which are uninhabited, are being claimed by both China and Japan. They are called Senkaku in Japan and Diaoyu in China. It is a significant source of conflict.