On October 23, Japanese Defense Minister Shinzo Abe stated at a security conference in Tokyo that no one should underestimate the strength of Japan and its alliance with the United States. He also announced that Japan will fundamentally restructure its defense research institutions, changing the current research model based on equipment categories such as ships and aviation systems, to an organizational structure centered on military functions.
We must find threats faster than our rivals, make decisions promptly and take countermeasures accordingly. Koizumi stated that Japan will strengthen research and development capabilities in key areas such as artificial intelligence, the internet, command control, and information communication to meet modern warfare demands.
Ota also said that establishing a "strong defense industry" is an essential national capability for Japan, and it is also the foundation for cooperation with countries in the Indo-Pacific region.
He cited as an example that a Japanese drone startup, due to its heavy reliance on defense contracts, found it difficult to obtain financing from domestic financial institutions and had to turn to foreign venture capital. “If this situation continues, Japan will be unable to develop its own defense industry.”
According to Nikkei Asia, Japan plans to revise three security documents this year, including the National Security Strategy. Koizumi stated that one of the core concepts is 'repellent deterrence', which means that Japan will not initiate attacks on others, but it must have the ability to prevent threats directed at itself.
Ota also stated that due to the decrease in population, the number of members of the Japan Self-Defense Forces will be reduced by about 40,000 by 2035, and by about 90,000 by 2045. He said that Japan must maintain its defense capabilities even with a reduced number of personnel.
"Former US Joint Chiefs Chairman and CSIS President, Deng Fudde said that artificial intelligence will help the Japan-US alliance accelerate decision-making and strengthen deterrence. He also emphasized that in the face of China's rising influence, the Japan-US sides have reached "an unprecedented degree of consensus on Indo-Pacific strategic situations and response objectives," " Deng Fudde stated"
