In a sit‑down interview with BBC journalists on Tuesday, Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said Japan must strengthen its defence capabilities to prevent a future war in a region that is rapidly becoming more unstable.
Koizumi emphasised the importance of reinforcing the alliance with the United States and expanding cooperation with other like‑minded countries. He pointed to a new policy that allows Japan to sell or transfer lethal weapons to 17 treaty partners for the first time in five decades.
The minister also underscored changes in Japan’s defence policy, such as relaxed arms export rules, and highlighted discussions with Australia, the Philippines, Indonesia and New Zealand on acquiring Japanese destroyers.
He explained that a revision to Japan’s constitution, especially Article 9, is needed to adapt to the changed security environment. "Japan has not amended its constitution since World War Two, but the security landscape has changed dramatically," Koizumi told the BBC.
China’s growing military power and North Korea’s continued missile tests are cited as key threats. Koizumi said the “greatest strategic challenge” for Japan comes from China and that the country still pursues dialogue with Beijing.
Defence spending has risen to 2% of GDP under Prime Minister Takaichi, a sharp increase from the long‑standing post‑war benchmark. Japan plans to invest in surface‑to‑ship missiles and unmanned drones, and analysts suggest its shipbuilding and electronics sectors could become competitive in the global defence market.
While Koizumi points to the need for a clearer status of the Self‑Defence Forces, critics worry that formal recognition could undermine pacifism. The debate is set to be decided by a national referendum, with the public ultimately determining whether Article 9 will be amended.
Kodiyum also stressed Japan’s key role in regional security beyond its US alliance, stating that Japan must protect itself and contribute uniquely Japanese solutions to maintain stability in the Indo‑Pacific.
