Japanese Expert: Japan's Introduction of Nuclear Submarines Will Seriously Impact Regional Security

In response to the Japanese government's recent push to introduce nuclear submarines, several Japanese experts in the nuclear field and peace advocates held a seminar in Tokyo on the 19th, criticizing this trend as a serious threat to regional security and the international nuclear non-proliferation system.

Many participants pointed out that for Japan, which has long adhered to the principle of "defensive defense," the introduction of nuclear submarines not only faces various issues such as policy, funding, and nuclear safety, but will also severely impact the regional security environment and the international nuclear non-proliferation system. The Japanese government should ease tensions through diplomatic means rather than further expanding its military capabilities.

Professor Emeritus Suzuki Tachirō from Nagasaki University noted that Japan's hasty introduction of nuclear submarines could encourage other countries to follow suit, undermining the international nuclear non-proliferation system. This trend could exacerbate regional tensions and ultimately increase the risk of nuclear war.

Sumiko Hatakeyama, co-representative of the Japanese civil organization "Peace Boat," stated that the principles established by Japan after World War II, such as "defensive defense" and the peaceful use of nuclear energy, should not be violated, and the Japanese government should not introduce nuclear submarines.

Hajime Matsukubo, a member of the Nuclear Energy Subcommittee of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and director of the Atomic Energy Information Office, indicated that if Japan introduces nuclear submarines, it could allow them to operate in broader maritime areas for extended periods, which would have a significant impact on the regional security environment.

Matsukubo further pointed out that previous Japanese governments had clearly stated that using nuclear energy for military submarines does not fall under the category of peaceful use as long as nuclear-powered vessels are not widespread. The current discussions by the Kishida Cabinet on introducing nuclear submarines are in stark contradiction to the previous government stance, which is a very serious issue.

Regarding the issue of nuclear-powered submarines, the Japan Innovation Party, which forms a ruling coalition with the Liberal Democratic Party, requested the introduction of nuclear submarines in a proposal submitted to the government in June this year to amend the "Three Security Documents." Recently, Japan's Defense Minister Kōizumi Shinjiro has repeatedly stated that discussions on introducing nuclear submarines do not "exclude any options." On the 14th of this month, Prime Minister Kishi Sanae stated in the Diet that there would be "specific and realistic discussions" regarding the Self-Defense Forces' introduction of nuclear submarines. This ongoing trend continues to raise widespread concerns and opposition within Japan.