What does Japan's military expansion mean for the region? | Inside Story

Japan says the strategic challenge posed by China is the biggest it has ever faced.
Besides Beijing, Japan has two other nuclear-armed neighbours in North Korea and Russia.
It has expressed concerns about intensifying Russian military activity in its far east, even as Moscow presses on with its war against Ukraine.
And a North Korean missile flew over Japan in October.
Japan wants to significantly increase its military spending, targeting $315 billion in the next five years, or 2 percent of its GDP.
But Tokyo's plans are a reminder of an imperial past when it occupied the Korean peninsula and parts of China and seized all of East Asia during the second world war.
So, what does the new military drive mean for Japan's Pacifist Constitution?
Presenter: Laura Kyle
Guests:
Kotaro Tamura - Adjunct Professor at Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore. He is a former senator with Japan's Liberal Democratic Party.
Nancy Snow - Communications Director, International Security Industrial Council. She's also a Foreign Policy Advisor to the Japanese Government.
David Arase - Resident Professor of International Politics at The Hopkins-Nanjing Center of the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies.
Subscribe to our channel: bit.ly/AJSubscribe
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Check our website: www.aljazeera.com/
Check out our Instagram page: / aljazeeraenglish
#Japan #JapanMilitaryExpansion #JapaneseArmy #InsideStory

[@EmpowerHour101]

GOOD LUCK JAPAN, PHILIPPINE IS HERE TO HELP🇵🇭🇯🇵

[@raygart1233]

Your funny you can't even help/protect your own country

[@woopityscoop2863]

Definitely a turning point in history we are living in. So tough to make sense of it from everyone's perspective.

[@demonslayer3683]

Yeah, times are changing rapidly. Switzerland is taking sides. Japan is arming itself. War in europe after years. US power declining. Don't know what more to come.

[@mattblom3990]

This is expected, just very late. The USA has been pressuring Japan to renounce the very pacifism they imposed on it since the 1950s. It's not a question if this is needed, it's a question if Japan will even have time to re-arm before they must put their cards on the table.

[@effexon]

not too late.... 2024 looks to be turning point to see what happens.... lot of elections everywhere if we gonna survive 2023 intact somehow with economies bad

[@blackwatertv7018]

LMAO the US has been doing the opposite actually but go off.

[@sebastian192]

@@blackwatertv7018 no, the US over the years has indeed been pressuring japan to amend their pacifist constitution, as japan and us are allies, and currently japan's constitution does not allow boots on ground in regions of active conflict, which means they are not as useful to the US military as the US would like them to be

[@NeostormXLMAX]

@@sebastian192thats because the usa has been trying to make japan fully become their slave so they can sacrifice them in the upcoming conflict against china lol, japan has been quite the rebellious vassal state unlike south korea and australia, even germany is quite rebellious which is why nord stream happened

[@NeostormXLMAX]

@@sebastian192also japan used pacifist constitution to protect them from being sent to Afghanistan and Vietnam, all illegal wars the usa started, this is NOT a good thing for japan, japan will completely become american slaves now forced to die for their wars

[@aokookello5564]

This country Japan is silent, but under the waters, it's very intelligent. People shouldn't underestimate it's silence for weakness. This country is clever

[@edgar-mmxxiii]

They have better moral sense than China and its people have discipline in contrast with the Chinese

[@uncledan2u]

Long Live Japan!!

[@jchanmcse]

Clever and militaristic! Just be careful, it will bite you!

[@zakkan9474]

Chini ya maji sio. As you were soldier.

[@justnow5809]

Not clever, cunning...

[@Andre-sg2zx]

seeing how North Korea behave and Russia-China decision to always backup North Korea, Japan needs to be a serious formidable power in the region.

[@peanut0brain]

How nk behave? NK testing it's missiles. USA can but nk can't? How delusionally disgusting does ur pea brain have to be?

[@toshitanaka1550]

Japan was being serious until Kishida botched it with his left wing agenda. Not only that you have constant bashing from the Japanese Communists saying no to war yet they are willing to fund the CCP. That is the bottom line of delay until it is too late.

[@peanut0brain]

@@jimmyvan6817 yes exactly! If somebody wants to do something, they CAN ALWAYS MAKE UP & DISCOVER SOME EXCUSE

[@sinoroman]

South Korea and Japan are the only junior allies of the US closest to North Korea

[@hclau362]

Oh, did N. Korea send warships to US or Europe doorsteps to threaten them? The US is the one sending warships to N. Korea doorsteps to threaten it. Please shaft you bullcrap twisted logic where the Sun don't Shine.

[@kj3rd2657]

I say it's good for JAPAN to build up it's military power, because the way things are going in the world, the weak will be picked on by other bully country's for nothing! You must be strong to take down the bully's!

[@demonslayer3683]

Correct.

[@truongtranthaiduy8959]

bruh

[@BeachBoi1000]

Ya… Japan used to bully China.

[@mahoganygamefarm730]

As Trump said peace through strength. This is what the dictators and authoritarians regime only way of diplomacy, weak will be bulied.

[@user-po1ts8rt5d]

@@mahoganygamefarm730 Это не страны хулиганы, это вы всегда были мародёрами и грабили слабую Африку, Азию. Теперь пришло время ответить за всё. BLM вам покажется детской забавой, вас просто истребят ,как паразитов. Вам припомнят все слёзы, всю кровь колоний. Вы обречены на вымирание.

[@latviabalkanumuzika1514]

Support to Japan 🇯🇵 from Latvia 🇱🇻

[@user-mj4we3zy5z]

Love♥️ to Latvia🇱🇻 from Japan🇯🇵

[@arvinaguila2156]

Japan must mobilize their Gundam mobile suit unit

[@yourdissapointeddaddy2057]

ITS AH GUNDAM

[@richard_the_lion_farted]

Some say the military is for when diplomacy fails. I have come to learn that the military is often part of a diplomatic strategy. Japan is already pretty strong by virtue of the high quality of its troops. Bolstered with new, high-tech equipment to increase their capability they will shore up being a regional (and global) superpower.

[@jcobra99]

Glad that Japan and Germany are both re-arming. The 3rd and 4th largest economies in the world should have militaries on par with their economy. Both are responsible democratic countries and their increased military spending only makes the world more safe and keeps the dictatorships at bay

[@se7enzee444]

Great for US, Americans. We can sell/clear all the old weapons.

[@jcobra99]

@@se7enzee444 Exactly!

[@mike8677]

You should watch the TV serie Barbarians and see for yourself what germanic tribes do to people who try to enslave them and tell them how to live their lives.

[@lyntoncampbell1425]

Germany the country that started world war 1 and 2 loll

[@4411825]

Keep the world safe for imperialism!

[@MANNU-31RR_14JAAT]

We supports&love Japanese Brave Army🇯🇵+🇮🇳... Love from Bharat 🙏🏼

[@shermannatrix]

While I've never been a fan of geopolitics, I can't help but draw upon the lessons and history that we have learned about our country Singapore and how WWII spanned the entire region. Fast forward a few decades later, what China is currently doing brings back memories (from documentaries of WWII in the Pacific) of the late-1930s. Tensions are rising and building up like a volcano. While I'm not wishing for it, or remotely want it to happen, you can feel the pressure rising and it's just a matter of time before something major happens in the region. As a Singaporean, I am grateful that our government has done an amazing job to remain neutral geopolitically speaking, and that has brought so much stability. But one cannot deny, the next decade feels a little uncertain.

[@user-po1ts8rt5d]

Что тут не понятно? Ваши правители толкают мир к ядерному конфликту с Россией. Россия обладает на сегодняшний день самыми быстрыми средствами доставки - гиперзвуковыми ракетами скорость до 28мах. Европа, США и союзники будут гарантированно уничтожено. Конечно это произойдёт только в случае нападения на Россию. Если у вас президенты и правительства настолько туры, что хотят рискнуть жизнью на планете, может народы окажутся мудрее. Мы не будем погибать ради того чтобы вы жили.

[@johnecarma4487]

were so close to the event and in the end, i hope everyone knows that. Be it even if u are faithful,believers,pagan,atheist,any sect...be ready the event is near only the catholic country knows this...we are warned we were warned and we did/they did,not listen to the warnings to our god.....

[@Tehui1974]

@@johnecarma4487 Your post does not make much sense.

[@Zayfromtheway]

It's because of China. Wtf

[@CommunistBot]

China is the most peaceful superpower the world has ever seen.

[@mdhasmatalimondal1216]

Germany is strengthening military. Italy having political changes. Now Japan is building aircraft carrier. Did I missed anything 🥴🥴🥴

[@jakepistolero]

germany was strengthening their military, but then they decided to kill their economy, along with the rest of europe, on orders from dc

[@ramans11]

Yes, PRC and Russia :)

[@Madame702]

Yes, the Japanese with express approval of the United States is flooding military weapons into Taiwan and Philippines.

[@jakepistolero]

@@ramans11 you the "west's" declared enemies?? Enemies the "west" continues to say they should be antagonized??

[@justadam1917]

@Eastside Azskelad and the media did not miss a beat It was as if it was always so

[@Luigi13]

When too much attention is being given to the Japanese increase in its defensive budget, I am reading that people take this initiative by Japan as a serious undertake since Japan is a very determined adversary if it comes to a point of being attacked and Japan would respond to it. I also feel that when Japan starts to focus on beefing up its defenses and stranghtening its armed forces nations will take notice that it means business and not just an empty promise. Japan has to do what is best for its people and country for the survival of the nation to live peacefully.

[@CraBundy]

Read some history man, USA have bases in Japan is a millitary pack of defending the country, you attack the Japs your attacking the big dog(USA) literally 50000 Americans stationed there USA use it as a millitary port to access that side of the world, keep calm it's under control

[@alone-tt8dg6ic6f]

The US wants to fight Russian by Ukraine to destroy the EU economy and Russian economy. And The US wants to fight China by using Indian soldiers. Australia, South Korea, Japan and Singapore will be used as assistant tools to India and will destroy these economies like the EU. This is the long term goal of the US. The EU, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Australia, Canada are The US colonies. Their democracies are colonists liberal slaves democracies with racist humanity .

[@hanzocloud]

@@josephhalligan1712 yeh but things change so quick, China was on your side back when Japan was the enemy. And look at today. All could be flipped and Japan the enemy again in only a few decades.. history shows us that peace and alliances never lasts

[@joed192]

Germany and Japan rearming and y'all cheering hahahahahahaha

[@randomka-52alligatorthatis34]

@@joed192 Times have changed. It is now in the Interest of the West for them to be rearmed.

[@Tehui1974]

It's like watching the start of WWII again, except some of the roles are reversed.

[@catandduck]

exactly……

[@doubt3430]

The axis are back And they are on our side now

[@jamiec1396]

Russia was never really an ally in ww2

[@stevemiddleton5278]

@Jamie c Are you serious? The British gifted the Soviet Union a two-handed sword encrusted with jewels to commemorate the souls of the one million soldiers who died at Stalingrad. There wouldn't be any democracies today if a million people didn't starve to death as a result of the siege of Leningrad. Some people can be so narcissistic, so ungrateful.

[@jamiec1396]

@@stevemiddleton5278 they were an ally because they were enemies of our enemies, no other reason.

[@magusalakcristituto449]

Japan are the good guys now, so its okay to bring back their military might, support and admiration for Japan from Philippines

[@kaineuler]

They used to kill your people how do you have any love towards those monsters.

[@magusalakcristituto449]

@@kaineuler those people are gone now, we dont live in past but the important thing is we learned lesson from it, we can do nothing to bring back the past, those monster you are referring are long gone, the paid for their mistakes dont repeat the mistakes they have done, like china is doing now

[@yourdissapointeddaddy2057]

@@magusalakcristituto449 yeah their is no bushido ideology or radicalism within the Japanese military, they are just normal regular soldiers who want to protect their country and their families from Chinese and NK aggression.

[@worldentertainmentvang7307]

From U.S.A, Restore Japan's Military!

[@yourdissapointeddaddy2057]

@@lice5688 as a veteran who has worked with the JSDF I can say this is false. America has one of the largest militaries in the world and half of the US population is overweight or obese and the US military only makes 1% of the American population, this could be said the same about the Japanese as well except a large portion of the population are pacifist and more healthy than the average American….

[@helderet4756]

I agree with the Japanese decision of boosting its capabilities

[@MiSt3300]

The world is arming itself all the time. Soon we are going to start killing each other

[@masajhn]

Maybe they will fishing their job in Pearl harbor ...

[@user-pn3im5sm7k]

@@masajhn least delusional anti-japanese person Im a former US servicemember and plan to join again. I will always rather ally Japan than barbarians like China, NK, or Russia. Glad to have Japan as an ally.

[@masajhn]

@@user-pn3im5sm7k Japan never an Ally , CIA just killed their prime minister... you now that

[@jjjr.1186]

@@masajhn no Japan is the tight Asian Allie. Pearl harbor is the past. We look towards the future.

[@Thediego537]

I have been living in Japan for 8 years…Japanese don’t care about giving 2% more for taxes when is about defending themselves. They have really clear the meaning of being together.

[@tylersherratt4466]

And it has the strongest military in the world as it’s strongest ally

[@tysonpunch2954]

Well I’m Japanese citizen and yes we do care about 2% !! we hardly make living to keep up with increasing life cost , and our government keep printing money supporting the US dollar the Japanese adult are not stupid 😂😂

[@jimmyvan6817]

defending themselves or invading the whole region again? Fking stupid human being never learn from history, just wait for another Adolf Hitler.

[@Thediego537]

@@tysonpunch2954 I know the Japanese government print a lot of money and that's one of the reasons most people here in Japan are lower middle class, but the reason I say Japan doesn't mind paying 2% is because you don't talk about politics and the government knows very well how to control you. Talking about politics in Japan is like a deadly sin, 95% think that conversation is awkward, I've been trying a lot to talk about politics in bars, but they find the conversation in bad taste, they even told me that if I don't I like Japan why I still live in Japan. They think that I am criticizing the Japanese and I am really talking about the government system that is corrupt and has been in power for about 70 years stealing votes. Japan is a democratic socialist system. It's good that you don't belong to the pack that is dominated.

[@CommunistBot]

@@Thediego537 Japan is a capitalist country by all definitions....

[@aemeromedia]

awesome info! 💪

[@MainFrameGamerz]

General MacArthur and his team were the main architects in writing their constitution, they can modify it all they want.

[@tommykaung5882]

I won't even surprised if they are secretly building Gundam.

[@fanaticforager6610]

🗣 RELEASE GODZILLA 🌊 1:55

[@orbitoncena.vblinkmidzy8451]

The moving gundam in yokohama is just a teaser/spoiler 😅

[@chesterb9006]

HAHAHAHA

[@chesterb9006]

Also Goku

[@Each1Teach1Tech]

Japan is not frivolous. They are not secretly doing anything. You need to understand japan. They mean what they agree to. They were waiting for the right time and this is it. Check out the role they played in the world cup. That is what they want to do. They are high tech but wants to bring the population down to earth and to colaborate. Together we achieve more.

[@winstondeocampo699]

Well Japan has been pushed with it’s back against a wall so it’s only doing what it is being forced to do. I even feel like it’s a bit late.

[@sablefilms]

Not until it apologized for its crime against humanity. It killed 35 mils Chinese alone. Hardly, pushed to the wall.

[@demonslayer3683]

I kind of agree with you.

[@silentwatcher1455]

Japan is hopeless. They still have unpaid war crimes. Many countries are just eager to see Japan pounded everyday by North Korea,Russia and China. Only paid countries have satisfied with Japanese payments. Many countries have high morals and principle that don't accept money. Japan should pay it with blood, not money to have peace.

[@winstondeocampo699]

@@silentwatcher1455 Lol you wish troll. You want blood you might just get it.

[@iSamsore]

Japan is already defeated. They have been fully colonized by the United States and are now being used to die by their masters.

[@gamingone6420]

We should be always ready on defending our nations. If we won't be then who will be?

[@pengxiangzhang1655]

Just look into the history, then u know who is the invader.

[@gamingone6420]

@@pengxiangzhang1655 those who are stuck in the past are doomed to fail

[@allh5891]

@@gamingone6420 that's tipical japanese thinking. but have you ever opened your mind to think what's your neighbors concerns? you guys deny everything u have done, and act like your are the victim by usa. if u havn't get trust by departing from your past, who has the courages to trust japan to make friends with japan? i know that the past was deliberately disguised in japanese history book. u might konw nothing about what your ancestors had done. tust me, if you konw it you would be in my position.

[@gamingone6420]

@@allh5891 I'm not japanese lol

[@allh5891]

@@gamingone6420 so, u have no shoes to feel in as we do. 😄

[@somerandomfella]

It's pretty messed up when we have to rely on our neighbours while pointing weapons at them.

[@rohitambedkar6593]

Only power can ensure peace. Love Japan from India 🇮🇳.

[@benx2230]

Japan today is not an aggressive imperialist nation. Japan is one of our (the West) closest allies, and they should amend their constitution so they can take their place on the world stage to not only defend themselves but also to participate with their fellow democratic nations in that part of the world in helping to maintain peace.

[@jamieterrill]

Personally, i don't care how horribly Japan treated the rest of Asia during WWII. As long as they don't challenge America's authority or start attacking other Asian countries again, they've got *my* support. China's been stealing Japan's rightful place as the dominant economic power in asia for far too long anyways.

[@trippydanny920]

Japan is Americas puppet state just like South Korea

[@user-uu6bq9mg7x]

@@jamieterrill Japan fought to liberate its colonial country in World War II. In fact, various countries became independent.

[@user-un5qv3dc9n]

@@user-uu6bq9mg7xnow that is complete bullshit and downright false history right there sir

[@oemolokupano4512]

Excellent and important report.

[@joelsimengk7793]

Wow interesting stuff 👏

[@thomaslove6494]

Japan has the right to protect itself just like any other countries.... I don't blame them one bit for wanting to strengthen their defenses.... 🇺🇲🤝🇯🇵

[@jimmyvan6817]

just like Adolf Hitler. Come on, Japan never apologize for what they did in WWII. Now, wait for another Adolf Hitler rise in Japan to fk the whole world again.

[@ashishkalam9337]

Better if Japan grows its military than having an American Military base there

[@pumalee1997]

yes.

[@patrickwheelhouse]

Lol. That's exactly what china wants. Removing the American presence.

[@itsrye8001]

12:30 typo i believe. Japan and China has dispute over uninhabited islands in the "south china sea"?

[@ddwkc]

Yeah, Taiwan is also pretty close to the Japanese island chain. They need to be assertive. Otherwise, China would threaten Japanese waters in that chain.

[@petermclelland278]

Explaining what a 'defensive weapon' is would be a good start ?

[@EmperorShang]

Finally stepping up to defend their own home with their own hands and tools. Good on Japan

[@touristmania8051]

Honestly we all living here in japan was starting suffering already about the too much higher taxes that we pay plus the foods ECT.are double higher prices already now Wich is everyone was complaining already..😔 Pray for the peace in all countries.

[@mahoganygamefarm730]

Then go back home to your home country where your fake leader promised you gold, low prices, cheap energy, cheap rice. Are they happenning now or you are another victim of falsz promises?

[@user-jp5lw7xx3r]

日本は約30年賃金の上昇もなければ物価の上昇もない。デフレ経済が続いてきたので低金利政策がずっと取られてきた。直近2年の物価上昇率も他国に比べて低い。高い税金で国民が苦しんでいるのは本当。

[@RiTchieKII]

Sadly high prices and inflation is an issue everyone everywhere is facing too

[@NeostormXLMAX]

@@user-jp5lw7xx3rtaxes will be higher now you are funding American army

[@briantran9242]

Awesome! Way to go

[@KazuyaTaki-ui3fv]

Thank you for your calm analysis of Japan's current situation, rather than just sensationalizing the re-militarization of Japan.

[@cestwhat1317]

Times change. Everything up to and including tactical nukes (with Sponge Kim Squarehead’s pic on them) should be on the table.

[@ozahmed4523]

I'm thinking about the Mitsubishi Zero! Awesome lightweight ww2 fighter plane.

[@josephhalligan1712]

lol yea thats what i think every time i buy Mitsubishi ,,,,,quality lol

[@brianlowe3529]

With no regard to its pilot Banzai

[@abrarbinnoman6112]

Also Nakajima Hayabusa

[@fourthright]

It can be turned into a cheap drone

[@shirayukineps-l5956]

And also Raiden

[@Tupibrazuka]

03:45 to 03:49 Could that launch button be pressed more theatrically? I hardly believe it. 😂

[@fuzzy5631]

i want to see an improved version of the zero ✈️

[@RobertsDigital]

As a black guy Japan is a country that I have always loved. Ever since I was a kid, I have had more close, genuine and humble friends from Japan than any country is the east. They've been a great source of inspiration to me. Always wish them the best of luck and blessings on anything they do. Remain blessed Japan👍❤ Cheers

[@frankzhou741]

I like their girls in AV the most, gorgeous most of them

[@priyanksaikia5549]

If u are a true African you would wish Japan to be militarily strong. Most Africans feels the Invasion pains and the Unit 516 and Unit 731 laboratories for biological and chemical warfare against us. This time they will beg for food as they donot produce much agriculture and Ships can blockade any exports to Japan from any country

[@vickomen3697]

JCIA doing the most lol

[@user-hv9vn4fi4w]

🙈🙈🙈

[@sablefilms]

Your love for Japan is understandable for most of the West love the public face of Japan never knowing or caring to know its other side. Its public face is under the full control of the govt, hence very little of its other side is shown outside Japan. Hence, the West didn't know its military brutal past, your relatives have not been skinned or buried alive, nor none of your loved ones' underwear is sold in the machine at the street corner, nor assaulted in the daily train ride. Not until such reports are made to the West, you and others will love mystical Japan.

[@KentaFPS]

This is good not just for Japan but in every country in East Asia and Southeast Asia as well and also I just want to say that China has border disputes all over its borders

[@harryliu8281]

China's territory is oppressed by lots of strong country.The world should have helped them.😢

[@tinzi4x4]

What value does dialogue have if one party does not abaid by its agreements, e.g. Russia?

[@XxXenosxX]

Dang it man answer the space question!

[@00ta]

Peace is nothing but balance.

[@markmcculloch2570]

Dictators ? There’s a problem. 😅

[@allh5891]

in real life. the tick is who decide and what exactly is balance? most people think if i hold a knife to others throat would be the best balance. and that counldn't lead to peace!

[@00ta]

​@@allh5891 You are right. It's sad to admit the nature of the 'peace.' But I think Japan would never strengthen her military might unless external threats. The point is that who held knives to the other's throat first. Japan has experienced persistent threats and harassment, including ballistic missile landings in Japanese waters. You would not be so rational if you kept yourself smiling and defenseless when threatened by knives at your throat. The government's primary mission is to protect its people.

[@allh5891]

@@00ta there are USA military bases all over the Japan. why didn't Japanese feel any threats? even though most harm done upon japan was brought by USA. Because you trust each other. Japan and USA once was deadly enemies, and now close friends, why? How? could you japanese guys put a little bit effort to do the same with your neighbors? building trust for each other. u keep complains about unfriendly military building up of neighbors, whom you once invaded. but you guys love who invaded your country. This would give others a false impression that Japan will only understand power!

[@bca-xe6vv]

Let's pray that China won't become the next Russia and Japan and Taiwan won't become the next Ukraine. I believe all the people of different nationalities have their reasoning for whether or not they will support their government's decision. I just don't like wars.

[@chrislydon6796]

We are aware of the nuclear threats, however, we move forward

[@Frindleeguy]

They put a lot of faith in the lasers...

[@keikotunoda426]

I'm Japanese from Japan. I tell you this. What do people around the world expect for Japan? This is exaggeration/ Can't you do math? Compare military spending of Japan and China. And China has more nukes than USA. Since Japan is not allowed to have any offensive weapons. So what we Japanese do is just watch how China conquer Asia countries and others. Since historically Asia countries used to belong to China and Japan was national isolation. Asia is just going to return to the original situation. Although cunning westerners want war (Japan vs China). Do not use Japan . If west want war with China, do it by your self.

[@xJDMWaRRi0Rx]

All they really need is for Mitsubishi to start making low budget single seater planes again

[@rooster-zg4oo]

Japan's economy is so strong that even 1 percent spending...it's already one of the strongest militaries in the world. Going to 2 percent...whew. it will be the third most powerful country behind the US and China, the first and second strongest militaries in the world

[@MrNoodlesyet]

Japan lacks experience and an active duty military man power. Many of the volunteers are over the age of 30

[@loveofmangos001]

China's military is a paper tiger and will be destroyed if they pull anything and even they know this.

[@horse-4598]

Scary

[@jasondong9721]

Are you sure? Japans GDP has been going backwards for the last 30 years…. Predicted to continue to go backwards for until 2100

[@rooster-zg4oo]

@@jasondong9721 still the number 3 economy in the world.

[@Quisto317]

There will be wars and rumours of wars. This is the just the beginning of pangs of distress.

[@Boombox69in]

I agree with Japan doing this, and wish it had done more, much sooner. I’m afraid it’s too little, too late to save themselves, let alone anyone else.

[@David-fj5lz]

This will also bolster the self-confidence of the Japanese to re-assert itself, the start of a new nuclear power!!

[@blahblahblah6235]

This is not about defense obviously. It’s not like a weak small country trying to survive. Yes we have a land dispute with both china and Russia and that is a problem. But we are willingly giving the US a massive landmass for their military bases and it’s legitimately a threat to our neighbors concerning history. Abe Shinzo had been dying to change the peace constitution for all his time as a prime minister long before the invasion but he couldn’t do it. And now this national security doctrine is unconstitutional but there’s no strong opposition because people have not been paying much attention to politics so as to consider the meaning of US military presence in Japan. And people was shocked by the invasion and are scared so the LDP is taking advantage of this crisis. The content of the papers are again unconstitutional and emphasizing the complete alignment with the US, they are so inseparable that it refers to journalism and anti war movement as a threat, like the US. Of course Japanese government doesn’t want a war (I guess), but it seems they have given up the face of peace and starting to prepare for when the US goes military with the Taiwan situation.

[@ricardosmythe2548]

If you want peace you have to prepare for war. The balance of power in the region has been altered in the last few decades and China will become a problem if its allowed to dominate

[@radcard9862]

As an American this is great news keep it up japan 🇯🇵❤️

[@carlnewman8753]

你们当然希望送死的狗厉害一点！

[@user-uu6bq9mg7x]

@@carlnewman8753 Poor thing, China will be ruined by Japan and the United States again lol

[@DoomStarRequiem]

When are they unveiling the Mecha?

[@lawrenceswan5850]

Great achievement of Japanese people for protection of. Loving nation GOD BLESS PEOPLE OF RISING SUN.❤❤❤❤

[@durudadlani1931]

All the military build up in this region is a terrible sign, but it is to be hoped it will be used for strategic defensive purposes. Hopefully a strong and worldly wise Japan can help the dynamics of maintaining peace in this region. Once the other nations cool down their stance, this will become a happy and blessed region, as it deserves to be.

[@teamlean3717]

I think Japan has read the proverbial tea leaves & realised it might need a 'blue water'(whatever that means) navy to secure its own energy supplies like China is doing with a military base on the horn of Africa. China is doing it over land with the belt & road, relations with Iran, the Taliban, etc. So Japan might either need to get closer to Russia or secure a sea lane.

[@xungngo]

"Children are not punished for the sins committed by their parents". This dictates that today Japanese should not inherit the sins of 1940s Imperial Japan. They need to pave their own security.

[@Oscar42o]

Looking forward to Unit-731 (2.0).

[@swagkachu3784]

American scientists rubbing their hands

[@lucasstuart19]

When you have neighbors like China Russia and North Korea this is the least you could do

[@justnow5809]

Forgotten the past?...

[@CommunistBot]

When China, Russia, and Korea have had neighbors like Japan, it is no wonder why they want to have a strong military deterrent.

[@rosbin56]

@@justnow5809 no one forgets the past but you must not use the past as restrictions. Japan then and japan now is 2 different country

[@justnow5809]

History always repeat itself, hopefully not....

[@rosbin56]

@@justnow5809 not always, history repeats itself if variables is still the same. First: japan now is not fascist. Second: japan nationalism then is all time high, they did defeated russia during Russo-Japanese war. But modern japan experienced defeat in ww2 with two bombs dropped on them. Third: most japanese right now is pacifists. Offensive war will be very unpopular

[@JugglerBean]

It is weird that this country invaded us before but now I am cheering for Germany and Japan because of the other imperialist threats in the region.

[@boxinggoat3766]

I’m a U.S. Marine and we know how fierce the Japanese can fight. I’m glad an honored to have them fighting on our side this time. God bless Japan and all allied nations. We need to be more united now than ever before!

[@georgewong1837]

@@boxinggoat3766 If you were a Japanese POW, you won't say what you said.

[@boxinggoat3766]

@@georgewong1837 that pretty much goes for any POW, of any war. Regardless of the past, the fact remains that Japan is an allied country to the United States and the west. So is Germany considering they had Hitler. Can’t live in the past bro

[@donuthole7236]

Don't count on Germany for helping to defend freedom. They prefer to take a back seat, not spend any money to contribute for the common defense and let everyone else do all the fighting and dying.

[@donuthole7236]

@@georgewong1837 I don't think any nation is innocent when it comes to committing atrocities. WWII ended 80 years ago and the people who were responsible are long gone.

[@lospolloshermanosfamily2986]

If I was leader of China, I would've messed up Japan 5 years ago as pay back. The Chinese have been patient with everyone.

[@glendfordcadle1594]

What is "look at the larger picture here?" Talks of peace and war same time.

[@regan-2863]

Nations are preparing for something

[@jakepistolero]

well, last time they colonized and oppressed china, korea, and serveral islands in the pacific. if past is prologue...

[@assertivekarma1909]

Past is rarely prologue when a nation has evolved, it's just a reasonable to argue that developing autocratic countries like China are more like Imperial Japan than modern Japan itself, in regards to militaristic stance.

[@jakepistolero]

@@assertivekarma1909 actually, past is frequwntly prologue

[@assertivekarma1909]

@@jakepistolero Depends how you define and summarize, but the more distant in time the less they are relavant

[@user-pn3im5sm7k]

I don't mind. Japan should colonize those countries. Maybe Chinese goods will finally be quality under Japanese rule. 😂

[@jakepistolero]

@@assertivekarma1909 wwii is too distant for you?? Really??

[@r96399]

How are they going to find people to join the military?

[@trk1b28varianrhesa4]

They have Military Sponsored Anime lmao

[@trk1b28varianrhesa4]

No, I'm not joking when i saying this .

[@YurAku-S1110]

As the change of power attitude it may be necessary to keep and hold Nuclear Weapons for safety in this Asian Peninsula

[@flash_channel2161]

Japan has the right to defend itself.

[@Remix2366]

My point exactly

[@jo769]

go go Japan! Good work!

[@pumalee1997]

go japan,japan should raise its defense budget to 10% of its GDP.

[@user-hv9vn4fi4w]

Yeah, tsunami will be usefull! Fukusima was not enough!

[@demonslayer3683]

@@pumalee1997 that's too much increase

[@demonslayer3683]

@@user-hv9vn4fi4w how tsunami and fukushima linked to this?

[@Gurp2]

@@user-hv9vn4fi4w Why do you Koreans always criticize Japan about everything? Jealously maybe?😅

[@cmaurice9133]

Friend today. A foe tomorrow. The term we shall never forget? A nuclear armed Japan ?.

[@ronaldsanjuan6646]

Japan nation is sleeping Giant

[@davidroberts1689]

Hold on until we (Japan, USA, world) get fusion energy. That will eliminate the need for sea routes needed for energy. Still, the problems won't disappear magically. It will take cooperation on everyone's part.

[@worer850]

And no energy for the Saudi or any of these other country's that have been playing political games with the west.

[@ahtheh]

You do realize, the world, especially the US has the capability to produce green energy from hundreds of sources. The biggest reason they don't, is to get bigger profits

[@mudshovel289]

@@ahtheh No they are actively trying but these sources are less energy dense than fossil fuels, not to mention they are inconsistent because they depend on the weather and the time of day. Furthermore, electricity needs will increase even more if society tries to completely electrify all of the things that were being done by fossil fuels, such as heating, industrial processes, and transportation. Renewabes cannot manage this demand. We will need some form of nuclear to help them out. This is the US government's official position as well as they've been funding research into nuclear SMRs fueled by thorium instead of uranium. Fusion would be the best but we're a long way off.

[@Frog13799]

Have you heard of the petrodollar? The USD will collapse overnight without trade in oil.

[@Qwuiet]

The scientists said it won’t happen for couple decades…

[@ParallelComparison]

This is a false dichotomy. Just because the past Japan acted that way doesn't mean it is going to act the same way now. The question should be why is Paper dragon acting that way now? Why no one is talking about Paper dragon acting like Imperial Japan? Japan is simply responding to Paper dragon's military bullying. Paper dragon is sending warships to islands claiming that they are all theirs and threatening to invade Taiwan. The current Japan who has been relatively peaceful for the past 77 years is simply reacting to the aggression. Isn't it North Korea that is firing missiles over Japan? Didn't China fire ballistic missiles into Japan's EEZ zone? Didn't Russia and China's warship sailed around Japan? Japan has been sleeping these past 77 years but it seems Paper dragon, North Korea and Russia keeps provoking Japan. What they forgot is all 3 of them have been defeated by Japan in the past. Japan defeated Russia in 1905, Japan defeated Paper dragon in WW2, Japan also defeated Korea in 1910.

[@SMmania123]

If it was the same old Japan from the 40s I'd be worried, but since it's not. I'm glad for Japan, they've got North Koreans, Chinese, and Russians on their border. Truly a worse case scenario for a democatic nation, practically surrounded by enemies.

[@cocaineminor4420]

You really think south Koreans are friends of Japan definitely not lol

[@cocaineminor4420]

Most Asian countries didn't forget what Japan did during ww2 and the military built up is kinda Sus.

[@darknova1552]

Japan has same ego of WW2

[@ronieflores2242]

hopefully for the next generation they might find a way to develop not means for war but more on understanding for the world peace so we can continue to advance to a good progression.

[@raquelobiado9061]

Everyone has the right to defend itself at all times 🤣

[@Frindleeguy]

That's what the 1% gdp budget was for, self defense. 2% is undeniably an offensive, at least the possibility to go offensive, budget.

[@lktan224]

China also face problems from US force based in Japan and SKorea. She has the right too to defend her from these warmongers.

[@Luigi13]

@@Frindleeguy Offensive towards North Korea would be proper.

[@BravoCheesecake]

@@lktan224 Not when they openly threaten neighboring sovereign countries.

[@noirto2]

@@BravoCheesecake just like what japan have done historically, and as punishment they are strip of the right to have a army. same case as what happen to germany.

[@hanwon895]

I am Taiwanese. The China air fighter invade the border of Taiwan everyday.The purpose of China's invasion of Taiwan is to build Taiwan into a military base for future wars against Japan and the United States, and to serve as a springboard for China to break through the first island chain defense line. Taiwan and Japan are strategically located as a community with a shared future. It is necessary for the two countries to cooperate in the military and establish a military alliance.

[@user-uu6bq9mg7x]

🇹🇼🤝🇯🇵🤝🇺🇸 We will stand up for world peace.

[@GaionSputro]

I love my mom. And ln hope me and her has a long live and healthy. Amen.

[@chaindrive_blvd]

Japanese reply to Russia, North Korea, China...BANZAI!! 🇯🇵

[@pilotx3mm420]

Everybody gangsta until you hear a sweeping melody of battotai in the east

[@One_Cebu]

It’s about time. I would like to see Japan put a grip on China.

[@kenchan4267]

Japan invaded china way back ww2

[@brianlowe3529]

They had a. Grip and got kicked out

[@user-pn3im5sm7k]

@@brianlowe3529 Only because of us. We will not fight Japan. I want to fight China with Japan.

[@justnow5809]

You have not read nor known anything about WWII, no right to comment about this war...atrocities by the Japanese soldiers...

[@user-pn3im5sm7k]

@@justnow5809 Stop clinging onto the past. Why are you anti-Japanese people stuck in 1941? Are you that behind? Japan already paid for its crimes, administered by us, the ones who saved China from imperial Japan. Cry a river. And what does China do in appreciation for our endless aid and help to China during WW2? They continue to provoke us and our allies. Shameful people the Chinese are...

[@RB-rp6ud]

I can understand China’s worry of Japan growth in its defence posture. With Japan’s advance technology/capabilities, I am not surprised that it will be a military superpower next to the US.

[@ceasar8679]

But you can't understand Japan's worry of increasingly aggressive Russia, China and North Korea. You are just a ccp's clown

[@RB-rp6ud]

@@ceasar8679 I think you do not understand what I wrote judging by your comment. BTW I am not a ccp clown

[@sksksks5072]

@@RB-rp6ud u a demogogs clown

[@deadby15]

Japan sending 2% of its GDP means its military budget will be the 3rd biggest in the world. China will think to twice to deal with the combined forces of the world's biggest (US) and the 3rd military powers (+ AU, India, Taiwan, etc. also).

[@CommunistBot]

@@deadby15 The US has no right to be militarily involved in Asian affairs.

[@Shiroya_Rumika]

I'm not against it, but I'm having doubt that they can pull it because of the recent case of Bank of Japan

[@justice929]

Ironically, the cruise missile is a kamikaze weapon instead of a human brain a computer brain...

[@samsson6430]

If Japan was abandoning its pacifist stance, I think it would be justified. When you have a country like North Korea lobbing missiles over your head, you have to think about how being a pacifist can help you defend yourself.

[@ky-effect2717]

Support Japan for the sake of a free world.

[@emmanueloban8349]

I'm Filipino-American and most Filipinos would agree to have Japan all the military power it could have even nuclear. Japan has supported the Philippines as far as military cooperation. Japan is our ally. We have defence agreement as well as the US. China is a threat as we see it.

[@jonisyoutubechannel]

JAPAN!!!!!🇯🇵🇯🇵🇯🇵🇯🇵🇯🇵🇯🇵🇯🇵🇯🇵🇯🇵

[@olivanestrellas567]

Congrats japan.This will hinder china,korea,russia for bullying.USA cannot do it alone.

[@yaqob3275]

Bullies.... didn't NATO and USA invaded more countries than china, Russia, north Korea put together in the last 20 years? Dirty hypocrite!

[@Luigi13]

It is a dichotomy, Japan cannot remain pacifist while other countries around it they are becoming aggressive and dangerous. Japan has to be very careful and make sure it would not be attacked by surprise.

[@se7enzee444]

Who would attack Japan when there are US 5 military bases there?

[@yurichtube1162]

@@se7enzee444 Because Japan looks at the Kurds and see what can happen.

[@mike8677]

Having a strong military is key in neutrality. Otherwise, filthy countries will force you to take a side. Its the cost of freedom.

[@felipe-vibor]

Oh, you mean like pearl harbor? Aggressors always think other people think like them.

[@debatetv5794]

@@se7enzee444 north korean missiles is flying over japan, what kind of attack have u in mind? a ww2 like bayonet charge or a b17 carpet bombing?

[@arnulfomanuel6340]

For having a greedy neighbors whose re drawing boundary lines and having disputes with neighbors in every angle. It's about time to counter the big bully !!

[@kangbool]

Kotaro Tamura ... A SG Rep??? Interesting.....

[@assertivekarma1909]

Reputations matter, and they can linger, but too many people look backward to cast blame and leverage narrative spin. We are supposed to evolve as a species and civilizations, this includes more refined ethics and a prudent recognition of security concerns. South Korea and Japan have had histories that can warrant criticism, by today's standards, just like nearly all nations, but they are both shining examples of national evolution, democracy, economic development, cooperation among allies... I'm fairly confident that a strong Japan & South Korea, is good for the world.

[@USA2Brazil]

Yep High IQ homogeneous nations are the most successful.

[@notme9976]

Hit the nail on the head sir!

[@TheFlagUnit]

Dont forget an assertive China. China is awesome.

[@TheFlagUnit]

democracy is an open lie

[@garygraham8373]

no nation's leadership ought court japan as a foe. japan is pragmatic but also fearless. when the time is right, when china is distracted, a sudden flash will carbonize all of north korea's nuclear facilities. sk will send flowers, russia will return the kuril islands, shogun japan.

[@BeAtPeaceAmongYourselves]

It's the best way to do for now since they don't have nukes to defend their land against threats, at least this way nuclear countries are scared against sabotage missions, the war between USSR and The US is affecting the whole world, this is the war of grudges, a war what our ancestors left and didn't solve, Imperialism vs. Freedom and at least the alliance with the US is protecting Japan against nuclear attacks and I'm worrying more in India than Japan since India is acting rebellious, China might use Nukes against them since they are antagonizing the US, India can't rely in the outside help unlike Japan.

[@awjames1121]

Japan will never trust usa and alliance any more..as ukriane left a nightmare for japan. To trust them anymore.?? So japan believe that japan needs to be master of himself.. and to be responssible for japan own safety..as usa runing away, when ukriane was at war with russia tell us all about the usa will do.. So now japan feels that it is only japan himself, can really sure protect and defense japan....? So japan really needs to builds a very strong and very powerfull japan to better protect and better defense japan..???

[@nurlindafsihotang49]

Uh, you think the 3rd world means poor huh? You think we asian dont have the madness? There's a reason china PRRC thread lightly againts it's neighbour. USA even got taste of kamikaze, both in 1944 and 2001. imagined if asia, as whole, become a warzone.

[@BeAtPeaceAmongYourselves]

@@nurlindafsihotang49 I'm not thinking that 3rd world countries are poor, I'm talking about don't have an access to build nukes, even Philippines can create their own nukes if they weren't prohibited to build one.

[@nurlindafsihotang49]

@@BeAtPeaceAmongYourselves by who? Eh? Eh?

[@BeAtPeaceAmongYourselves]

@@nurlindafsihotang49 you should go back to school.

[@shanpatrickbaker988]

Something good, no country deserves a powerful army more. They are one of the greatest nations on earth.

[@fanaticforager6610]

In view of Common Enemies, the Empowerment of one’s Allies is Logical 7:25

[@darkblu117zcrookedneck8]

I think Japan Military development is a good thing.

[@denyk142]

do they even have enough people to increase their army size tho

[@jonathanskurtu7384]

Protect the environment.

[@kalomboC]

The irony is Japan handed out L's to each of it's regional rivals in the 1st half of the 20th Century....and never really honestly fessed up to it's Imperialist terror and never genuinely apologized to it's victims. Perhaps it wouldn't be seen as a threat or a potential rival, if it had

[@cosmichef75]

Japan has been left no choice but to prepare to defend it self

[@neohubris]

It has apologized but what difference would it make? Countries act based on their own logic of strategy. China would be revanchist whatever Japan did.

[@madensmith7014]

It's only China and Korea that's gung-ho about the apology thing. Other than that, there's a whole extensive list of public apologies and reparations that the Japs have given throught several decades. I've skimmed through the apologies, the Japs do mention that they've committed atrocities. Only China and the people who are stuck in WW2 since that's really the only thing they know about the geopolitics in the region sees Japan as a threat. Even Korea knows that the Japs are a reliable ally despite their grievances.

[@yourdissapointeddaddy2057]

@@neohubris yet Japanese people aren’t taught the atrocities the military committed in China and it’s pacific neighbors during WW2 Unit 731, unlike Germany where it’s literally a crime to deny the holocaust never happened.

[@neohubris]

@@yourdissapointeddaddy2057 White guilt is a cancer that is destroying western civilization. just look at Germany, it is purposely destroying itself with open immigration to atone for this white guilt. Germany has signed it's own demise.