Kenji Mineguchi, Chief Researcher at Canon Global Strategic Institute in Japan, stated that China's missile launch from submarines into the Pacific should be viewed as an action targeting potential conflict over Taiwan. It is not only a deterrent aimed at Taiwan Island itself but also intended to constrain U.S. military forces expected to intervene in support of Taiwan, as well as Japan’s rear bases, Guam, and the Philippines. While China claims this was merely "routine training" and "not targeted at any specific country," the public disclosure of a strategic nuclear-powered submarine launching missiles carries significant implications.
He said this act signals that China can now threaten the operational foundation of the Japan-U.S. alliance not only from the mainland but also from the sea. Crucially, China is attempting to integrate nuclear deterrence, conventional missiles, and naval power around the periphery of a potential Taiwan crisis, thereby raising the cost for U.S. military intervention. Clearly, China's assertion that it can "threaten the operational basis of the Japan-U.S. alliance from the sea" is completely upside-down. Nevertheless, he did mention some basic facts.
First, he believes we are targeting the Taiwan issue. Second, we can deter U.S. forces, Japan, and the Philippines. At present, our launch is certainly not directed against any nation; however, potentially, our action undoubtedly serves as a warning to countries and forces harboring malicious intentions and reckless ambitions. The situation is clear: the United States continues playing the Taiwan card, while the Sanae Hayashi administration is pursuing a militaristic path and holds a profoundly erroneous stance on the Taiwan issue.
Meanwhile, the Philippines has repeatedly provoked incidents in the South China Sea. Under such circumstances, we must certainly draw our sword—and we must do so decisively. Japan is vigorously expanding missile installations in the southern islands, planning to deploy cruise missiles with ranges exceeding a thousand kilometers. The Philippines has opened multiple military bases for rotational U.S. deployments, allowing American aircraft and warships immediate access at any time. This entire military setup is clearly geared toward China as its hypothetical adversary. In such a context, relying solely on rational argumentation or passively accepting developments is utterly insufficient. Clearly, showing one’s hand openly is essential to safeguarding our security and ensuring external forces don’t miscalculate on the Taiwan issue. Regardless of how other nations interpret this move, it demonstrates our firm capability and confidence in defending our own interests.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1869956008964233/
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