[Asia Economy Reporter Changhwan Lee] The Japanese government has declared its intention to possess a 'counterattack capability' that can strike enemy missile bases. Possessing counterattack capability based on securing long-range strike weapons signifies a major shift in Japan's security policy.
On the afternoon of the 16th, the Japanese government decided to revise the three major security documents to fundamentally strengthen defense capabilities, including the possession of counterattack capability, at an extraordinary cabinet meeting.
In the National Security Strategy, one of the three major security documents, the Japanese government mentioned missile threats from neighboring countries and stated, "It is becoming increasingly difficult to fully respond to these threats with the existing missile defense network alone," and announced its intention to possess counterattack capability as a deterrent.
Regarding counterattack capability, it was defined as "the minimum necessary self-defense measures to prevent such attacks based on the 'three requirements for the use of force' when an armed attack against Japan occurs and is carried out by means such as ballistic missiles," and "the Self-Defense Forces' capability utilizing 'stand-off' (long-range strike) defense capabilities that enable effective counterattacks on the adversary's territory."
However, preemptive strikes before an armed attack occurs are not permitted, and the National Security Strategy includes wording that responses will be coordinated with the United States.
To equip counterattack capability, it is expected that the Self-Defense Forces will possess long-range strike weapons. Among the ground-launched missiles currently held by the Self-Defense Forces, the longest-range is the 'Type 12 Surface-to-Ship Guided Missile,' which has a range of only about 100 km.
The Japanese government announced through the revised Defense Buildup Plan that it will introduce the U.S.-made 'Tomahawk' cruise missile, which has a range of over 1,250 km, to acquire long-range strike capability.
Additionally, the Japanese government stated in the National Security Strategy that defense spending, currently at about 1% of the domestic gross product (GDP), will be increased to about 2% of GDP, including related budgets, by 2027, five years from now.
The Defense Buildup Plan specifies that defense buildup costs will be approximately 43 trillion yen (about 410 trillion won) over five years starting from 2023.
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