Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Navy plans to acquire new surface combatants within 90 days, focusing on anti-submarine, anti-surface, and convoy escort roles. The first two ships will be constructed at foreign shipyards, with future production contingent on U.S. investment and technology transfer. The Mogami-class frigates, including the recently delivered "Natori," are being considered for their operational capabilities and compatibility with U.S. requirements.

Tanaka TakashiSun Aug 30 2026Loading...

The U.S. approved the sale of 103 AIM-9X missiles to South Korea on August 21, 2023, which prompted a strong warning from North Korea of a significant response. This sale aims to enhance South Korea's air defense capabilities and ensure interoperability with U.S. forces, amidst ongoing tensions in the region. The approval reflects a broader strategy of U.S. military support to South Korea in light of North Korean threats.

Tanaka TakashiSat Aug 29 2026Loading...

South Korean Defense Minister An Kyung-duk estimated North Korea possesses 80-120 nuclear warheads during a parliamentary session on August 20, 2023. This estimate contrasts sharply with former President Trump's claim of 57 warheads, highlighting a significant discrepancy in assessments between South Korea and the U.S. The differing figures raise concerns about military strategy and alliance dynamics in the region.

Tanaka TakashiThu Aug 20 2026Loading...

On August 13, 2023, President Putin visited the Northern Territories, marking his first visit as president during a large-scale military exercise involving 60 ships and over 13,000 personnel. This visit is viewed as a declaration that the territorial dispute is not open for negotiation. In response, Japan's government lodged a formal protest and is contemplating additional sanctions against Russia, reflecting the escalating tensions between the two nations.

Tanaka TakashiSat Aug 15 2026Loading...

Japan's destroyer Ikazuchi participated in joint naval exercises with the Philippine Navy and U.S. Coast Guard in the South China Sea on April 23, 2026. Discussions on the GSOMIA negotiations were a key focus during Philippine President Marcos's visit to Japan, emphasizing enhanced defense cooperation. The report highlights the operationalization of defense agreements between Japan and the Philippines.

Tanaka TakashiThu May 28 2026Loading...

The U.S. informed Japan of a delay in the delivery of 400 Tomahawk missiles, potentially impacting Japan's defense capabilities. The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's destroyer 'Chokai' has completed modifications to launch these missiles, but the uncertainty surrounding ammunition delivery raises concerns about Japan's counter-strike capabilities. This delay is significant as it affects Japan's ability to deter threats in the region.

Tanaka TakashiMon May 25 2026Loading...

On April 21, 2026, the Japanese government lifted restrictions on the export of lethal weapons, marking a significant shift in its defense policy. This change allows for enhanced defense cooperation with 17 countries, including the U.S. and Australia, and is expected to improve Japan's defense capabilities in the southwestern islands. Joint military exercises with U.S. forces are also planned, reflecting a strategic response to regional security challenges.

Tanaka TakashiSun May 03 2026Loading...

President Trump and Prime Minister Takai met in Washington on March 19, 2026, to discuss the Japan-U.S. alliance, focusing on avoiding serious rifts amid regional crises. Takai rejected a request for Japanese forces to be deployed to the Persian Gulf, emphasizing Japan's constitutional constraints. The meeting underscored the strategic challenges posed by China's actions and the need for Japan to enhance its defense capabilities while maintaining alliance commitments.

Tanaka TakashiSun Apr 12 2026Loading...

Japan is transforming its defense policy and redefining its alliance with the U.S. in response to threats from North Korea, China, and Russia. By 2025, Japan plans to increase its defense budget to 2% of GDP and enhance military capabilities, including the introduction of Tomahawk missiles. Joint military exercises with the U.S. and South Korea are scheduled for 2025 to strengthen regional deterrence.

Tanaka TakashiMon Apr 06 2026Loading...

In March 2026, Japan and the U.S. agreed to enhance military cooperation, including a fourfold increase in domestic production of SM-3 Block IIA missiles and the establishment of a new Pacific defense planning office. The U.S. will also outsource maintenance of F-15 and F-16 engines to Japan, aiming to improve operational readiness. These developments signify a shift in Japan's role from a defensive posture to active participation in regional security.

Tanaka TakashiWed Apr 01 2026Loading...

On March 19, 2026, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takai and U.S. President Trump met in Washington, agreeing on Japan's enhanced defense capabilities and the restructuring of the U.S.-Japan alliance. Japan's defense budget is projected to reach 11 trillion yen, with plans to increase it to over 3% of GDP by 2031. The agreement includes Japan managing F-15 and F-16 engine maintenance, reflecting a significant shift in defense policy and military cooperation with the U.S. amid rising regional threats from China and North Korea.

Tanaka TakashiWed Apr 01 2026Loading...

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takichi met with President Donald Trump in Washington on March 19, 2026, to discuss the U.S.-Japan alliance amid rising tensions from the U.S.-Iran war. The meeting highlighted Japan's strategic dilemmas regarding military support and energy security, as the Strait of Hormuz remains critical for Japan's oil imports. Japan's constitutional restrictions on military action complicate its response to U.S. requests for naval support.

Tanaka TakashiMon Mar 23 2026Loading...

North Korea launched over 10 ballistic missiles towards the Sea of Japan on March 14, 2026, prompting Japan to restructure its Maritime Self-Defense Force, with a new 'Fleet Surface Force' set to be established on March 23. Japan plans to deploy medium-range surface-to-air missiles on Yonaguni Island by March 2026, enhancing its defense capabilities amid rising tensions in the region. Concurrently, Japan and South Korea are deepening defense cooperation, including joint naval exercises.

Tanaka TakashiSun Mar 15 2026Loading...

China conducted live-fire military exercises in the Yellow Sea and engaged in provocative actions near the Miyako Strait from November 2025 to March 2026. Diplomatic tensions escalated between China and Japan following statements from Japanese officials regarding Taiwan. The U.S. and Japan strengthened their alliance through strategic dialogues addressing regional security concerns.

Tanaka TakashiSun Mar 01 2026Loading...

On February 18, 2026, the U.S. reaffirmed its commitment to defend Japan using all defense capabilities, including nuclear forces, during the Extended Deterrence Dialogue in Washington D.C. Both nations expressed serious concerns about China's nuclear buildup and North Korea's missile programs. Japan's defense policy is transitioning towards proactive defense, reflecting a deepening military alliance with the U.S. This dialogue marks a significant strategic shift in addressing regional security challenges.

Tanaka TakashiWed Feb 25 2026Loading...

On February 18, 2026, the U.S. and Japan reaffirmed their military alliance during the Expanded Deterrence Dialogue in Washington D.C., committing to strengthen defense capabilities against regional threats. In response, China imposed export restrictions on 20 Japanese companies involved in military enhancement, aiming to curb Japan's rearmament efforts. This development highlights escalating military tensions in East Asia, with both nations adjusting their defense strategies.

Tanaka TakashiWed Feb 25 2026Loading...

On February 18, 2026, U.S. and Japanese officials met in Washington D.C. to reaffirm the U.S. commitment to defend Japan using all defense capabilities, including nuclear weapons. The dialogue addressed the importance of enhancing deterrence against threats from China, Russia, and North Korea, and emphasized the need for improved command and control structures. Japan is set to increase its defense spending and develop long-range missile capabilities, while concerns about financial sustainability remain significant.

Tanaka TakashiSun Feb 22 2026Loading...

On February 18, 2026, the U.S. and Japan held discussions in Washington D.C. to strengthen nuclear deterrence and reorganize the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. The U.S. reaffirmed its commitment to Japan's defense, including nuclear capabilities, while Japan announced a significant reorganization of its maritime forces. Concerns over the safety of V-22 Ospreys led to the cancellation of a joint exercise in Okinawa.

Tanaka TakashiSun Feb 22 2026Loading...

On February 13, 2023, the Japan Fisheries Agency captured a Chinese fishing vessel in Japan's exclusive economic zone (EEZ) near Goto City, Nagasaki, arresting the captain for ignoring a stop order. This marks the first capture of a Chinese fishing boat since 2022, signaling a shift in Japan's maritime enforcement policy under the current administration. The incident has heightened diplomatic tensions with China, which has called for fair enforcement of fishing agreements.

Tanaka TakashiSat Feb 14 2026Loading...