Japan's Top Military Officer Calls for Stronger Deterrence in Indo-Pacific
General Yoshihide Yoshida, Chief of Staff of the Joint Staff of the Self-Defense Forces (SDF), emphasizes the need for Japan to bolster its defense capabilities and enhance the deterrence of the Japan-U.S. security alliance. He believes this is crucial to prevent military aggression in the Indo-Pacific region.
Yoshida highlights the importance of learning from the Ukraine war, where Russia underestimated Ukraine's capabilities and easily toppled the government. He stresses that strong defense capabilities are essential to deter potential aggressors.
He also emphasizes the need to strengthen the Japan-U.S. alliance. By improving its capabilities and playing a larger role in the alliance, Japan can gain greater trust from the United States and solidify its commitment to Japan's defense.
Yoshida expresses concern over China's growing assertiveness and its attempts to change the status quo by force in the East and South China Seas. He emphasizes the importance of collaborating with allies and like-minded countries to maintain a free and open international order.
He also discusses Japan's plans to acquire the capability to strike enemy bases, a move aimed at deterring potential adversaries from attacking Japan with missiles. He clarifies that this capability would not be used for pre-emptive strikes, but solely for self-defense.
Yoshida acknowledges the challenge of keeping the United States engaged in the Indo-Pacific region, especially with its commitments in Europe and the Middle East. He expresses confidence in the strong relationship between the SDF and the U.S. military, highlighting their joint exercises and ongoing efforts to improve coordination.
He addresses concerns about the independence of Japan's command and control authority, assuring that the SDF has taken the initiative in operations and is confident in maintaining its autonomy.
Yoshida also comments on the issue of SDF members visiting Yasukuni Shrine, stating that while individual visits are permissible, he will not visit the shrine while serving as Chief of Staff.
He acknowledges recent scandals involving SDF members and emphasizes the importance of maintaining high standards of discipline. He also addresses the issue of manpower shortages, stating that the SDF plans to utilize civilian personnel and reserve members while focusing its limited manpower on essential duties.
Yoshida concludes by highlighting the SDF's plans to utilize artificial intelligence to advance defense capabilities and increase the number of female members. He believes these initiatives will contribute to a stronger and more effective SDF.