Japan’s “Zeitenwende” in Defence Policy: Rationale, Challenges and Implications for Partners

CSDS POLICY BRIEF • 9/2023

By Céline Pajon, Eva Pejsova and Michito Tsuruoka

20.03.2023

This CSDS Policy Brief seeks to decipher Japan’s Zeitenwende in defence policy. It argues that Russia’s war in Ukraine has prompted the Japanese to think more seriously about their defence, including what it takes to defend the country. It has prompted two bold decisions: 1) to acquire counterstrike capabilities; and 2) pledging 2% of GDP on defence spending by 2027, thereby aligning itself with NATO benchmarks. This new strategy is welcomed by Tokyo’s international partners and will advance Japan’s strategic profile. That said, a number of challenges, pertaining to the funding of the measures, the legal backing, human resources and capabilities will have to be addressed to achieve the ambitious goals set out in Japan’s new strategic documents.

CSDS Policy brief_2309.pdf (374.76 KB)

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