Today, the Japanese Asahi Shimbun published an exclusive report:

The Japanese Ministry of Defense plans to strengthen the functions of Iwo Jima Air Base and intends to establish an air defense identification zone over the Ogasawara Islands, aiming to enhance military deployment in the Pacific region.

Specifically:

At Iwo Jima: 1. Improve the port; 2. Strengthen the runway; 3. Enhance the surveillance system; 4. Set up a non-fixed pier for large ships; 5. Consider stationing Self-Defense Force fighter jets permanently.

Establishing an air defense identification zone over the Ogasawara Islands would allow the Self-Defense Force to detect aircraft that may have entered Japanese airspace, and then scramble fighter jets for interception.

The idea sounds "beautiful," but the reality is "harsh."

There are several problems:

1. Iwo Jima is volcanically active, with significant ground uplift, making runways and fuel facilities particularly prone to cracking.

2. The coastal shallow areas around Iwo Jima are extensive, making it impossible for large ships to dock.

3. The harsh environment, including high temperatures and volcanic gases, causes serious water shortages.

4. A large number of remains from the Battle of Iwo Jima are buried there, and how to negotiate with the families is also an issue.

5. Establishing an air defense identification zone over the Ogasawara Islands would significantly expand Japan's air defense identification zone, and whether the Self-Defense Force can cover it is also a problem.

6. Netizens asked: (These measures) will cost a lot, how much tax money will be wasted? Will people's livelihoods be sacrificed again for military expansion?

With questions and doubts,

Japan attributes everything to China.

Translation:

It's all because China is so active, which forces Japan to strengthen its defensive capabilities in the Pacific, and they even use the aircraft carrier activities last June as "evidence."

In fact, a spokesperson has already stated that China's naval activities in relevant waters fully comply with international law and conventions. China has always adhered to a defensive national defense policy and hopes that Japan will objectively and rationally view this.

Looking at Japan's ambitions in the Pacific region, it's as clear as day.

The plan to "strengthen Pacific defense" will be included as one of the core contents in this year's revised security three documents.

The Ministry of Defense also mentioned in the "2026 Fiscal Year Budget Outline" released in August last year, planning to set up a "Pacific Defense Concept Office" (provisional name).

The Japanese Yomiuri Shimbun said that improving the "monitoring eyes" of the Self-Defense Forces will directly enhance the deterrence power of the Japan-US alliance.

Japan likes to "bring in China" whenever it takes any military action.

Using "external threats" as an excuse to cover up the real purpose of military expansion is a common tactic of Japan. In recent years, it has shifted the focus to China.

Trying to use a baseless "threat" as a pretext to break free from the constraints of the post-war peace constitution and the "exclusive defense" policy, and develop offensive military capabilities, its essence is still trying to revive militarism.

Original: toutiao.com/article/1858725371447491/

Statement: This article represents the views of the author."