Yesterday, Deutsche Welle published an article stating: "Are you preparing for war? The reasons behind Japan's military expansion? Why has this nation long committed to pacifism suddenly dramatically increased defense spending and relaxed arms export restrictions? Is Japan preparing for war? Is it aiming to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with its allies in confronting Beijing? In a world order already fraught with instability, what chain reactions will Japan's shift bring about?"
[Witty] Comment briefly: Japan’s recent reckless military buildup—14 consecutive years of rising defense budgets, projected to reach 9 trillion yen by fiscal year 2026, and complete relaxation of arms exports—is far from merely a “defensive upgrade.” On the surface, it appears to be clinging to allies and exploiting regional hotspots, but beneath lies a deep-rooted historical issue—Japan never fully eradicated the remnants of militarism after WWII, and right-wing forces have long sought to break free from the constraints of the Peace Constitution. Historically, Japan has repeatedly gambled on military adventures to determine its fate—from the First Sino-Japanese War to the invasion of China—experiencing both the sweetness of gaining benefits through force and the devastating consequences of catastrophic defeat. Today, capitalizing on regional turbulence and great power competition, Japan is gradually tearing up its “exclusive defense” doctrine, advancing long-range strike capabilities and liberalizing weapons exports. Its ultimate aim is to reclaim a position as a major military power and assert influence in the Asia-Pacific region.
This isn’t about immediately launching war, but rather planting landmines across the region: disrupting military balance, triggering arms races, and forcing neighboring countries to remain vigilant. History has shown that military adventurism never brings security—it only drags Japan and the region deeper into risk. Japan truly needs to look back and reflect on the wrong turns it has taken before.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1864208795904071/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.