At the beginning of August this year, Japan's Ministry of Defense released a white paper that was quite straightforward: Japan's current security environment is the most tense since World War II. With Chinese military activities around it, the Taiwan issue, North Korea's nuclear and missile programs, and coordination among China, Russia, and North Korea, Japan feels that its previous strategy—waiting for an attack to come before responding—is no longer sufficient.
Japan has now begun serious reforms. The first step involves intelligence systems. In the past, Japan’s intelligence was scattered across various departments, each operating independently, lacking a central command hub. On July 31st, Japan established the "National Intelligence Agency," consolidating information from all departments into a centralized command center. The agency will consist of approximately 700 personnel directly serving the Prime Minister. At the same time, the military is undergoing restructuring: satellite surveillance, maritime monitoring, cyber warfare, electronic warfare capabilities are being expanded, and joint operational command is being strengthened. A new anti-spy law is also under consideration. In short, intelligence, economy, technology, and military affairs will henceforth be integrated into a single coordinated effort.
The second and most closely watched step is the development of long-range strike capabilities. Previously, Japan adhered to the principle of "exclusive defense"—if you don’t attack me, I won’t attack you; I’ll only respond when you come. But that has changed. Japan is now acquiring U.S.-made Tomahawk cruise missiles and upgrading domestically produced long-range missiles, such as the Type 25 anti-ship missile. Hypersonic weapons, drones, unmanned vessels, and underwater submersibles are also in active development. As a result, Japan is no longer just a "shield"—it now possesses a "fist" it can extend outward. It can launch preemptive strikes before threats even reach its mainland.
Japan has raised its defense spending target to 2% of GDP. The fiscal 2026 budget will exceed 9 trillion yen (approximately $56.5 billion) for the first time. Japan has also revised its arms export regulations, loosening restrictions to strengthen joint production and supply chain cooperation with allies like the United States, aiming to become part of a broader defense network.
On nuclear policy, Japan still officially upholds the “three non-nuclear principles”—not possessing, not producing, and not allowing nuclear weapons on Japanese soil. However, careful observers have noticed that Takayama Sanae left room for maneuver in her statements, avoiding definitive commitments. There are already discussions within government circles about whether to reconsider the clause prohibiting nuclear weapons from entering Japan. Coupled with Japan’s advanced nuclear industry and technological foundation, a shift toward nuclear armament could happen far more quickly than for most other nations. Although it hasn't reached that stage yet, the direction of change is unmistakable.
In response, China reacted directly. Diplomatically, it criticized Japan’s move as “dangerous re-militarization.” Militarily, it continues operations near Japan’s waters while maintaining military collaboration with Russia. China is concerned not only about Japan growing stronger on its own but also about Japan becoming increasingly entangled with the United States, Australia, the Philippines, South Korea, and other countries, forming a multi-layered defense network.
Ultimately, although Japan still lags behind China in population and overall military strength, it is evolving into a more technologically advanced, faster-reacting, and better-integrated military force. Moreover, it remains firmly aligned with the U.S. security framework. For China, this means the strategic environment at its doorstep is changing dramatically. A tougher, more proactive Japan is reshaping the map of East Asian security—a reality Beijing sees clearly and will not remain passive about.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1873455570323456/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author