Japan defence update to emphasise air, sea safety amid concerns over China
Defence Policy review reflects Tokyo's worries about China's assertiveness, Russia's military build-up and North Korea's nuclear ambitions
An update of Japan’s long-term defence policy to be unveiled next month will call for stronger air and maritime surveillance capabilities and the improved ability to defend far-flung islands as concerns rise about China’s growing military assertiveness in the region.
The policy review, in the works since hawkish Prime Minister Shinzo Abe took office last December, is being finalised as tensions mount between Japan and China over islets in the East China Sea, known as the Senkakus in Japan and the Diaoyus in China.
“The security environment surrounding our country has become increasingly grave,” said a draft outline of the policy shown to ruling party lawmakers and obtained by reporters on Thursday.
“China is proceeding with wide-ranging and rapid modernisation of its military strength and expanding and stepping-up activities in the sea and air surrounding Japan,” the draft said.
It also cited concerns about North Korea’s nuclear and missile programmes and Russia’s military modernisation.
Tensions have increased since Beijing on Saturday announced a new air defence zone that includes the skies over the long-disputed islands and said planes flying in the area would have to notify Chinese authorities. Japan and its ally the United States have sharply criticised the move.