US Supports a Stronger Japanese Military to Deter China
Commentary
Japan is finally stepping up its defenses against China. Tokyo’s new national security strategy includes an increase in the defense budget from 1 percent of GDP to 2 percent. That will bring Japan into third position globally regarding military spending, behind the United States and China.
The United States supports Japan’s tougher strategy.
The U.S. Ambassador to Japan, Rahm Emanuel, responded, “The Prime Minister is making a clear, unambiguous strategic statement about Japan’s role as a security provider in the Indo-Pacific.”
The Japanese military is investing in new counterstrike missiles, including a surface-to-ship missile developed by Mitsubishi, purchases of U.S. Tomahawk cruise missiles, and the ability to coordinate with the United States in long-range delivery of ordnance to Chinese military bases….