Japan creates new command in response to China and North Korea's actions
Japanese military (Photo: David Mareuil/EPA)
On Monday, March 24, Japan inaugurated a new command for its Self-Defense Forces to enhance the integration of its land, maritime, and aerial defenses as part of a modernization initiative designed to improve coordination with the U.S. military, according to Kyodo News.
The SDF Joint Operational Command was formed at the Ministry of Defense in Tokyo, staffed by approximately 240 personnel. General Kenichiro Nagumo was appointed to lead this new body.
This initiative is part of Japan’s sustained efforts to bolster its defense capabilities significantly in light of a worsening security landscape in the region, driven by China’s increasing assertiveness, particularly regarding self-governed Taiwan, and North Korea’s ongoing development of its nuclear and missile arsenals.
“Our nation is confronting the most formidable security challenges since the end of World War II,” remarked Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani during the ceremony to unveil the new command.
Previously, the highest-ranking military official within the SDF had oversight of joint operations among the ground, naval, and air forces. The Chief of Staff also offered specialized advice to the Defense Minister concerning SDF operations.
The newly established structure will enable the Chief of the Joint Staff to concentrate on supporting the Defense Minister, while the new command will take on centralized management of SDF ground, naval, and air units across Japan.
- On March 25, 2024, reports indicated that the U.S. and Japan are preparing for the most significant renewal of a security treaty in six decades to counter China.
- On December 31, the FT reported that Russia had compiled a detailed list of targets in anticipation of a potential conflict with Japan and South Korea.
