Over the past 13 years, Japan has steadily increased its defense budget, investing in next-generation vessels, advanced fighter jets and other high-tech assets. This uninterrupted run of funding has empowered Tokyo to enhance its military footprint like never before.
In recent months, Japan has ramped up U.S.-led joint exercises, emphasizing long-range combat drills across land, air and sea. These operations, held with growing frequency, are designed to sharpen strategic interoperability and rapid-response readiness.
Meanwhile, Tokyo is broadening multilateral cooperation and, for the first time this year, has relaxed its arms export controls. This shift allows Japanese defense firms to export equipment to partner nations, underlining a move toward a more collaborative security agenda.
Although framed as self-defense amid regional uncertainties, these developments mark a clear departure from purely defensive tactics. With expanded budgets, robust alliances and looser export rules, Japan is casting a longer offensive shadow—raising fresh debates about the scope of its military ambition.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
