Just what we need. Another arms maker to make the world safe.
4
In actuality the citizens are even highly opposed of america letting japan 'defend itself'. "Why defend yourself when the US will do it for you?" Just because the meek japanese are finally putting one foot out, doesnt mean that they will go on a 1941 parade. Those are foolish paranoia. All what they have been doing, they've waited for approval of US or UN. This paranoid theory is on the same basis as innocent people in the middle east FEARING all those american soldiers are going to burst in their house, firing their guns, killing their wife and children. Just because it happened in the past, doesnt mean its a legit fear. Especially when its going to near 'a century ago' in our lifetime.
Also. A merchant isnt a merchant if there isnt a buyer.
Also. A merchant isnt a merchant if there isnt a buyer.
This is a fascinating story, full of Japanese World War 2 military symbolism. "Soryu class submarine" - the Soryu ("Green Dragon") was one of the Japanese aircraft carriers sunk at Midway. The relatively unscathed shipbuilding facilities of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries placed Hiroshima at the top of the A-bomb attack list. Kawasaki Heavy Industries made two fighter aircraft types considered the most serious threats to the fleets of B-29's ravaging the Japanese countryside. 70 years is enough time to wait to make war machines, but perhaps the various Japanese companies need Madison Avenue lessons about branding.
Avengers would have to rename itself as it was also a sunken aircraft carrier (british) at midway. Fighter jet hornet would also need a renaming as its a american fleet sunk at midway.
The United States in encouraging Japan to become increasingly militaristic is being wildly blind to the way in which Japan savaged Asia and especially China in past generations. The Japanese government has still never shown a proper remorse for the savaging of China.
4
If one HAS to go back in history for very specific events every time one has to rethink a strategy, then one cannot make an effective strategy. That is NOT to say that history should be ignored; it has to be considered in proper perspective.
And what is that perspective?
Japan of course savaged Asia - particularly China - and hasn’t shown remorse. True.
But Germany savaged Europe far more so than Japan in Asia. It’s an US ally now, in NATO and elsewhere. Besides, US ALSO savaged Japan with two largest single event killings - in all of human history - by TARGETING civilians. Atomic bombs in Hiroshima and Nagasaki anyone? Did US ever express remorse for killing so many Japanese civilians in single strikes?
WHO expresses remorse? Russia does not express remorse for taking Crimea or for instigating the still raging civil war there! US never expressed remorse for attacking Iraq! UK never expressed remorse for joining US in doing so! There are MANY more such examples.
Countries will NEVER express remorse unless they are defeated in the battlefield, at the least. Even then they do not (Japan). So what is the point of stressing the need for expression of remorse?
China is becoming belligerent just like Japan after it won the Russo-Japanese war in early 20th century. So China has to be contained. So what is the worse of the two vices? Let China be even more belligerent or let Japan be a counterbalance, its lack of remorse for savaging Asia in WW II notwithstanding??
And what is that perspective?
Japan of course savaged Asia - particularly China - and hasn’t shown remorse. True.
But Germany savaged Europe far more so than Japan in Asia. It’s an US ally now, in NATO and elsewhere. Besides, US ALSO savaged Japan with two largest single event killings - in all of human history - by TARGETING civilians. Atomic bombs in Hiroshima and Nagasaki anyone? Did US ever express remorse for killing so many Japanese civilians in single strikes?
WHO expresses remorse? Russia does not express remorse for taking Crimea or for instigating the still raging civil war there! US never expressed remorse for attacking Iraq! UK never expressed remorse for joining US in doing so! There are MANY more such examples.
Countries will NEVER express remorse unless they are defeated in the battlefield, at the least. Even then they do not (Japan). So what is the point of stressing the need for expression of remorse?
China is becoming belligerent just like Japan after it won the Russo-Japanese war in early 20th century. So China has to be contained. So what is the worse of the two vices? Let China be even more belligerent or let Japan be a counterbalance, its lack of remorse for savaging Asia in WW II notwithstanding??
1
Oh, how wonderful! Another economy feeding the tools of death into the world, because there just isn't enough armed conflict yet!
2
Those who favor a re-armed Japan should be careful because there is no future guarantee that Japan and China will not be allies against the USA in the future.
Not sure what you exactly mean by "Japan and China will not be allies against the USA in the future".
If you mean that even Japan will not be an ally of USA in the future, can you substantiate your claim with reasoning?
If you mean that even Japan will not be an ally of USA in the future, can you substantiate your claim with reasoning?
Great! There are not nearly enough weapons in the world. Now, we'll start hearing about secret deals and illegal gun running, where this stuff will end up in Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan, Somalia, Sudan, on and on. They should be able to defend themselves, but not other nations. Next stop, re-militarizing their society. Incredible.
It is surprising the amount of naivete when you read some of these posts - of course, Japan has built modern weapons, after WW II, but not in same manner and purpose as the US and Russia have; this activity resumed during the 1950's after the start of The Korean War and the beginning of the Cold War. Japan produces their own warships - destroyers, minesweepers, amphibious assault, a helicopter carrier, etc. - light infantry carriers and light tanks, and planes - the Mitsubishi fighter jet F-2 - and the armament and ammunition for all of these weapons but for defensive purposes (territory protection).
The Japanese selling weapons outside of their borders is not going to be a game changer, because the nature of most of Japan's military is of a defensive posture and, just like China and India, much of the weapon designs are from licenses from another country's defense industry; in this case, the US.
Countries like Vietnam, Philipppines, Malaysia, etc. need affordable defensive military equipment, in light of Chinese encroachment of their territory; military equipment, which the Japanese can produce.
I think it is ridiculous to hold the Japanese on their actions in WWII from selling their military hardware, as the Japanese have made concessions to most of the countries affected by their wartime crimes, through financial and infrastructure aid; only China and Korea would probably complain, as they produce and sell weapons on the World market and don't want the competition.
The Japanese selling weapons outside of their borders is not going to be a game changer, because the nature of most of Japan's military is of a defensive posture and, just like China and India, much of the weapon designs are from licenses from another country's defense industry; in this case, the US.
Countries like Vietnam, Philipppines, Malaysia, etc. need affordable defensive military equipment, in light of Chinese encroachment of their territory; military equipment, which the Japanese can produce.
I think it is ridiculous to hold the Japanese on their actions in WWII from selling their military hardware, as the Japanese have made concessions to most of the countries affected by their wartime crimes, through financial and infrastructure aid; only China and Korea would probably complain, as they produce and sell weapons on the World market and don't want the competition.
7
The Japanese have made concenssions to most countries? Get your facts strait. Take a Japanese history book and you will find WW2 in a very different way
3
war is the answer......long live the Military industrial Machine and welcome aboard Japan......there is big money to be made with killing machines/tools/accessories. Big bucks to be made people killing people. Talk may be cheap but military equipment is not.....not sure who pays for it all but I'm sure the machine does not give it out for free.
1
"Less than 1 percent of Japan’s industrial output is military-related, and only four Japanese companies are among the top 100 arms producers .... "
Something to be proud of.
Something to be proud of.
5
That will soon end. Japan's economy has been stuck in a straight line for 10 years. There's as much demand for guns as for butter. Since they don't really eat butter (they're more intent upon ridding the oceans of all fish and mammals,) more weapons will boost their bottom line.
One has to be well-informed about Japanese culture and visit Japan to understand them better. Making uninformed, sweeping comments about Japanese does not serve any purpose.
We've encouraged Japan to rearm and re-militarize through our foreign policy. And how much of that is driven by our adversarial relationship with China? An enemy of an enemy is a friend it seems. A nationalistic and militarized Japan is nothing to gloss over.
3
WW II ended seventy years ago. Japan is our friend and our most important ally in the Pacific. We have reason to fear Japan in 2015.
China is becoming belligerent just like Japan after it won the Russo-Japanese war at the dawn of 20th Century.
What is the worse of the two vices at this point? Let China be even more belligerent or let Japan be a counterbalance, its record in WW II notwithstanding??
What is the worse of the two vices at this point? Let China be even more belligerent or let Japan be a counterbalance, its record in WW II notwithstanding??
Some folks are over reacting to the Japanese selling arms. this is not a repeat of WW2, so get over it. In fact, if the Japanese were smart they would offer some equipment at really cheap prices to the Kurds in northern Iraq who are the only ones so far capable of fighting the ISIS mob.
5
Interesting that as Japan starts selling its weapons abroad, China becomes the third-largest trader of weapons in the world, behind US & Russia, all permanent members of the UN Security. Japan is also to join the UN Security Council as an elected member. So maybe it takes major arms sellers to decide on "peace and security" measures http://passblue.com/2015/06/29/among-security-councils-p5-china-and-russ...
1
Yes this makes perfect sense. Send all of our manufacture to China and expose our technological strengths to the Communists. The result....
Now the United States is left shopping for the manufacture of our own security in the 21st century. In light of our countries weak response to China's actions in the Pacific it's a smart move on Japan's part. The United Sates is becoming a "Paper Tiger".
Now the United States is left shopping for the manufacture of our own security in the 21st century. In light of our countries weak response to China's actions in the Pacific it's a smart move on Japan's part. The United Sates is becoming a "Paper Tiger".
1
Financial aid or low interest financing? I feel like those are two different things
Malaysia, the Philippines, South Korea, China, Singapore, Hong Kong, and all Asian countries still clearly remember when the Japanese armies invaded our shores and killed with impunity. My grandfather was nearly placed on a truck with many others being sent to Changi beach to be beheaded. At the same time, having visited the museum at Hiroshima, I saw the shadows burnt into walls by atomic bombs. Germany openly acknowledges the terror it committed in WWII. The Nazi salute is illegal in Germany. Yet, paradoxically, Japan did not renounce the regimes that committed those crimes. China and the US appear unaware of the impression their military-related actions give. A total increase in the region's arms does not give hope for a peaceful future.
5
They are field testing their product in the only way possible measured by deaths.
The world has changed since the World War Two. Japan needs to do what it needs to do. Japan’s atrocities in seventy years ago in China notwithstanding, it needs to develop defense capabilities- and supporting industries. Boosting defense production for export is one way to keep costs low. It will also mean less dependence and burden on the US. An armed Japan in today’s world does not automatically mean an aggressive Japan; there are too many counterbalancing forces to let that happen. To keep the peace in Pacific, a strong Japan with self-sufficiency in defense is a must.
4
Those who don't like this development. Blame China which has a habit of claiming everything is theirs. Tibet is ours, Taiwan is ours, parts of Japan, Korea, Philippines, India, and wait for it, part of Bhutan are ours.
China has border disputes with 27, yes twentyseven countries. We have bully in the neighborhood. You can't appease a bully and you have to confront the bully.
China has border disputes with 27, yes twentyseven countries. We have bully in the neighborhood. You can't appease a bully and you have to confront the bully.
7
Reality check wasted energy making weapons .Mean while planet being spoiled by pollution from japans nuke accident. USA is idling standing by allowing or enabling japan all in name of power an greed. Huge mistake for the planet where not going to make better world for next generation by esculating arms race new level
1
Seriously, whats the deal with all the comments about how dangerous it is or Japan to start selling weapons abroad. I get the impression that everyone is afraid of the next Pearl Harbor!
LMFAO. Does Japan even have nuclear weapons? Has anyone given any thought to the fact that a war like WWII will never ever be fought again? We might as well just go back to using the phalanx. Or wait... maybe that will happen after the third world war.
For now Japan is just going to do what Germany has been doing for a really, really long time.
Go back to your Axis and Allies games and your old WWII propaganda films. Enjoy your history books. War... lol, what is it good for? Absolutely nothing now that we have the bomb!!! Vietnam? Iraq? Wars? Please. Those were not wars in the classic sense. They were police actions and at best proxy wars between two powers scared to death of direct confrontation. Nukes. I imagine that's a pretty touchy subject for a few older Japanese people.
That's right. Nukes. Its 3 minutes till midnight.
LMFAO. Does Japan even have nuclear weapons? Has anyone given any thought to the fact that a war like WWII will never ever be fought again? We might as well just go back to using the phalanx. Or wait... maybe that will happen after the third world war.
For now Japan is just going to do what Germany has been doing for a really, really long time.
Go back to your Axis and Allies games and your old WWII propaganda films. Enjoy your history books. War... lol, what is it good for? Absolutely nothing now that we have the bomb!!! Vietnam? Iraq? Wars? Please. Those were not wars in the classic sense. They were police actions and at best proxy wars between two powers scared to death of direct confrontation. Nukes. I imagine that's a pretty touchy subject for a few older Japanese people.
That's right. Nukes. Its 3 minutes till midnight.
It is said, "if you want peace, prepare for war". Therefore, Japan has every right to relax its 50 year old self imposed prohibition on arms exports. Today, China is literally threatening the world. Growing economically stronger is one thing and growing militarily and threatening neighbors is another. China is claiming many disputed islands right from Vietnam to Japan and has not shied away from sending its warships to these areas, as a show of strength. Therefore, Japan can no longer rely solely on the U.S. to protect it. It has to use its own means to defend its people and honour.
Also, we have to test Japan's commitment to humanity after World War II. No doubt, it made many mistakes during World War II. But after its defeat, it has not indulged in any offensive acts. Therefore, Japan has every right even morally, to strengthen its military.
Also, we have to test Japan's commitment to humanity after World War II. No doubt, it made many mistakes during World War II. But after its defeat, it has not indulged in any offensive acts. Therefore, Japan has every right even morally, to strengthen its military.
5
This is a very positive and promising development. Japan will shoulder more of its share of its defense, and strongly raise its profile in coming years as a country to be reckoned with. They are our ally and friend, and should be strongly encouraged in this path.
This will be very good for US interests. Moreover, Japanese innovation and technical know-how can be expected to bring useful advances in military hardware and technology.
This is a very encouraging and positive development. Hopefully this early program will lead to larger breakthroughs in the field of Japanese re-armament.
This will be very good for US interests. Moreover, Japanese innovation and technical know-how can be expected to bring useful advances in military hardware and technology.
This is a very encouraging and positive development. Hopefully this early program will lead to larger breakthroughs in the field of Japanese re-armament.
4
“The government opened the door, but they are still very cautious,” he said. “We still have a very peaceful mind-set.”
What contradictory statements; either you are peaceful or a war-hog like the US, Britain, France, and Israel and many others. I guess an addition of another player in the Military Industrial Complex may not have a major impact on the world's miserable outlook for future as MIC routinely bribes governments to ensure that we have wars going on in the world. The MIC's existence preclude Peace and Democracy as they must have their wares used in order to generate PROFIT.
When was the last time the MIC tested a major weapon on the people in the US, USSR, China, England, France, Germany, Israel, and other OECD countries? It is always done somewhere else.
MIC tests these weapons like any new medical device or drugs are tested to understand the side effects on the population; most of these drugs related tests are done in India, China, and Africa, similarly we conducted testing of many new weapons in Iraq; subsequently, we even helped them build many cancer hospitals to treat children who were impacted by the use of many new weapons systems. Even today as the result of our misguided invasions of Iraq, infertility is sky high both in males and females; almost 40% of all pregnancies have some kind of disorder associated with the children. It is shameful when we do not hold people accountable when they conducted horrible crimes against Humanity.
What contradictory statements; either you are peaceful or a war-hog like the US, Britain, France, and Israel and many others. I guess an addition of another player in the Military Industrial Complex may not have a major impact on the world's miserable outlook for future as MIC routinely bribes governments to ensure that we have wars going on in the world. The MIC's existence preclude Peace and Democracy as they must have their wares used in order to generate PROFIT.
When was the last time the MIC tested a major weapon on the people in the US, USSR, China, England, France, Germany, Israel, and other OECD countries? It is always done somewhere else.
MIC tests these weapons like any new medical device or drugs are tested to understand the side effects on the population; most of these drugs related tests are done in India, China, and Africa, similarly we conducted testing of many new weapons in Iraq; subsequently, we even helped them build many cancer hospitals to treat children who were impacted by the use of many new weapons systems. Even today as the result of our misguided invasions of Iraq, infertility is sky high both in males and females; almost 40% of all pregnancies have some kind of disorder associated with the children. It is shameful when we do not hold people accountable when they conducted horrible crimes against Humanity.
5
The U.S., Britain, France China and the Soviet Union had all been victims of foreign aggression during World War II, and Israel has been the victim of such aggression since its founding in 1948. All of the above, plus India and Pakistan, maintain nuclear deterrents, as the "Doctrine of Mutually Assured Destruction" has proven highly effective.
Article 51 of the United Nations Charter recognizes an "inherent right to individual, or collective self-defense" for all U.N. nation-state members. The U.N. recognizes a clear distinction between "unnecessary wars of choice" and "defensive wars of necessity." The Security Council's endorsement of the defense of South Korea in 1950, under Article 51, constituted recognition and application of that nation's right to self-defense.
Article 51 of the United Nations Charter recognizes an "inherent right to individual, or collective self-defense" for all U.N. nation-state members. The U.N. recognizes a clear distinction between "unnecessary wars of choice" and "defensive wars of necessity." The Security Council's endorsement of the defense of South Korea in 1950, under Article 51, constituted recognition and application of that nation's right to self-defense.
It's not that Japanese schools tell false history about WW II. They just don't teach much about it. We learn so much about Australopithecus or Neanderthals in the first part of our history class in April, which is the beginning of our school year, but towards the end of the year, in around February or March, the pace is accelerated and the coverage of WW II becomes very poor.
However, in the past, we were able to learn about war-time atrocities from our elders. I remember my grandma used to tell me that she had seen so many bad acts of Japanese military people in Korean Peninsula that she felt sorry and could never make Korean friends. We have less and less such opportunities while the school system doesn't change and still continues the same way of teaching developed more than a century ago with emphasis on memorization and harmony, not on critical thinking.
The harmonious behaviors work great when things go in good directions. However, this same mentality of behaving good for the sake of the group to be harmonious may go in a wrong direction and result in a terrible consequence.
However, in the past, we were able to learn about war-time atrocities from our elders. I remember my grandma used to tell me that she had seen so many bad acts of Japanese military people in Korean Peninsula that she felt sorry and could never make Korean friends. We have less and less such opportunities while the school system doesn't change and still continues the same way of teaching developed more than a century ago with emphasis on memorization and harmony, not on critical thinking.
The harmonious behaviors work great when things go in good directions. However, this same mentality of behaving good for the sake of the group to be harmonious may go in a wrong direction and result in a terrible consequence.
6
Germany has had one of the most advanced militaries in the world for decades, is an active member of NATO, and the world is not concerned. Why is Japan different? It's because Japan has never come to terms with and firmly disvowed its war time behavior. Japan's "regrets" are always equivocal and vague.
It's not Japan's neighbors that refuse to bury the past, but rather Japan itself has never let go of a past that left tens of millions dead across Asia and the Pacific.
It's not Japan's neighbors that refuse to bury the past, but rather Japan itself has never let go of a past that left tens of millions dead across Asia and the Pacific.
3
This is the sort of story that the Times should be covering and no doubt this is the tip of the iceberg.
The trade in deadly weaponry is not moral neutral however. Why pretend it is soft drinks or cars? Relying on the threat (or use) of force is expensive and risky.
While there are many other merchants of death that far exceed Japan in sales, they are also allowed to work in the shadows. I would like to know about each country's requirements regarding sales to repressive places like Burma. Nations can easily designate any scapegoat as a terrorist threat and that is a loophole to drive many armored truck through.
The trade in deadly weaponry is not moral neutral however. Why pretend it is soft drinks or cars? Relying on the threat (or use) of force is expensive and risky.
While there are many other merchants of death that far exceed Japan in sales, they are also allowed to work in the shadows. I would like to know about each country's requirements regarding sales to repressive places like Burma. Nations can easily designate any scapegoat as a terrorist threat and that is a loophole to drive many armored truck through.
1
Whatever happened to the "end of history" when the Soviet Union collapsed and the Cold War ended? The new rivalries in the new multi-polar world seem reminiscent of the turn of the 20th century, before WWI. Instead of ushering in a new era of peace and prosperity, it seems the world is gearing up again for another world war.
Ecclesiastes 1:9-18
What has happened before will happen again. What has been done before will be done again. There is nothing new in the whole world.
Ecclesiastes 1:9-18
What has happened before will happen again. What has been done before will be done again. There is nothing new in the whole world.
3
Vanity of vanities, all is vanity. Ecclesiastes.
Having followed the US imposed pacifism for decades, and finding it rather dull, Japan now shifts to military muscle building- a more thrilling option, hence erecting the US style military-industrial complex in Japan too.
2
Why Japan keeps telling false history in their schools and not taking full responsibilities and apologies for invading and damaging other countries? Most Asian countries don't trust Japan but Japan does not care about that, they have continuous support from US, yes us.
20
As if the common history taught in our school is any different until higher education.
It is China and korea that brainwash their students by teaching false history, not Japan. We Japanese accept and the truth, but cannot bear admitting the false history fabricated by Chinese and korean.
To your question, that's what countries do. There are other examples besides the US, but did the US apologize for invading Iraq? Invading Vietnam? Bombing Laos and Cambodia? Supporting Indonesia's massacres of the East Timorese? Invading what is the US today? Supporting foreign country coups here and there? Supporting insurgencies/engaging in proxy wars here and there?
4
Shinzo Abe literally -- and I'm not one who uses the word "literally" lightly -- has in his cabinet ministers who have praised Adolf Hitler's rise to power. The ascendancy of militarism, history-denying national chauvinism, and press intimidation in Japan should be of great concern to all of us.
18
Ah yes, Mitsubishi...the folks who brought us the "Jap Zero," Pearl Harbor, and the "Flying Chrysanthemums" of Okinawa. The pendulum swings...
6
That was an awfully long time ago. With China getting a bit belligerent, a strong Japan today is a good thing.
1
Get a grip on the facts. The Imperial Japanese government "brought us" Pearl Harbor, not Mitsubishi. Are you going to blame Boeing for bringing two atom bombs to Japan?
A thoughtful observer might consider that 50 years ago, Japanese automobile manufacturers accounted for only a miniscule fraction of world auto production. Japanese cars of that era were uncomfortable, small, poorly constructed, subject to rusting and frequent breakdowns. Now, 50 years later, Japanese auto manufacturers have garnered the largest share of global auto production and produce high-quality, luxurious and comfortable vehicles built to last.
If design, manufacturing, and sales strategies follow the same trajectory, Japanese defense manufacturers will lead the world in 50 years and outpace United Technologies, L-3 Communications, Finnmeccanica, EADS, Northrup Grumman, Raytheon, General Dynamics, BAE Systems, Boeing Company, and Lockheed Martin.
If design, manufacturing, and sales strategies follow the same trajectory, Japanese defense manufacturers will lead the world in 50 years and outpace United Technologies, L-3 Communications, Finnmeccanica, EADS, Northrup Grumman, Raytheon, General Dynamics, BAE Systems, Boeing Company, and Lockheed Martin.
7
If you are absolutely sure about your projection about the Japanese defense manufacturers why don't you buy stocks for those cos. Selling a product to the masses and a specialist product sold under a dynamic scenario is another. There is some element of truth to your claim. Find out the results in 50 years.
This comes as the outcome when US shows its weakness in dealing with China in the recent years. It is natural outcome for a country like Japan to create their own military complex, who think US can jump ship in a moment because of business interests with China. Good move.
8
This is not a good development. Many Asian countries that
borne the brunt of Japanese invasion won't like it. Besides
China, south Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia would
be nervous. Some of these countries were urging USA to
increase its presence in Asia to counter China's rise.
USA seem to be willing to outsource it to Japan.
Japanese companies would compete against American weapons manufacturers which could potentially hurt MIC
here. It is a bad decision.
borne the brunt of Japanese invasion won't like it. Besides
China, south Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia would
be nervous. Some of these countries were urging USA to
increase its presence in Asia to counter China's rise.
USA seem to be willing to outsource it to Japan.
Japanese companies would compete against American weapons manufacturers which could potentially hurt MIC
here. It is a bad decision.
4
Those Asian countries will have to choose between China and the U.S.-Japan.
Neither China nor the U.S.-Japan will allow anything else.
Neither China nor the U.S.-Japan will allow anything else.
6
Not to diminish it, my own father was in the Philippines in WW2, but the war ended 70 years ago. That is long enough for Japan in my opinion.
1
Recently, I was interviewing a WWII veteran. This isn't the world they were fighting for.
11
How come? As a result of the war, and ever since 1945, Japan has been a peaceful democracy, a reliable ally of the United States, and one of the most active contributers and sponsors of the United Nations.
13
@swm: "This isn't the world they were fighting for."
That's too vague to comment on. Please explain.
That's too vague to comment on. Please explain.
They fought for a long peace; there has been no world war for 70 years. They got a bonus: a peaceful Japan which has been a long-time friend and ally. They preserved the freedom of their nation, and brought it to a nation which had never know it before.
They got what they were fighting for, and more.
They got what they were fighting for, and more.
This is not a good thing for planet earth.
The economic (malaise) and political (horrendous, strident, ineffectual) climate in Japan is eerily similar to pre-WWII days. Yes, it is a bit different this time. The demography is different, the king is not in charge (but ridiculously corrupt, strident politicians are). The population has lost interest in sex and procreation, and looks like in many of the things that were motivational about 40 years ago as well.
It does not help that China is the big, bad bully; N. Korea is the basket case crazy uncle locked up the in the attic, and that US is firmly in Japan's corner. Those fingers will itch; arms production will ramp up, arms will proliferate - none of these are good things.
Japan cannot solve its economic, demographic, social, and political problems with this initiative. But, money pouring in from arms sales to everyone (I suspect the biggest demand is in Africa and the Middle East) will only fuel more political corruption in Japan, stridency, provocative flights over China, and who knows what else.
Like I said, none of these are good things. Well, seventy years of peace and tranquility had to end, and this seems like as good a time as any for Japan.
Shudder!
Kalidan
The economic (malaise) and political (horrendous, strident, ineffectual) climate in Japan is eerily similar to pre-WWII days. Yes, it is a bit different this time. The demography is different, the king is not in charge (but ridiculously corrupt, strident politicians are). The population has lost interest in sex and procreation, and looks like in many of the things that were motivational about 40 years ago as well.
It does not help that China is the big, bad bully; N. Korea is the basket case crazy uncle locked up the in the attic, and that US is firmly in Japan's corner. Those fingers will itch; arms production will ramp up, arms will proliferate - none of these are good things.
Japan cannot solve its economic, demographic, social, and political problems with this initiative. But, money pouring in from arms sales to everyone (I suspect the biggest demand is in Africa and the Middle East) will only fuel more political corruption in Japan, stridency, provocative flights over China, and who knows what else.
Like I said, none of these are good things. Well, seventy years of peace and tranquility had to end, and this seems like as good a time as any for Japan.
Shudder!
Kalidan
7
The Nytimes reference to Japan as a "semi-pacifist" nation ignore the history and scale of Japanese atrocities across the region coupled with their complete unwillingness to acknowledge their actions. Instead, their "pacifist" stand was imposed by the Allies and reinforced by a US regime of providing military support. Japan has benefited immensely from this and yet continues to teach their school children a false history. There is a reason that virtually all Asian countries do not trust them.
6
@Chris: 'The Nytimes reference to Japan as a "semi-pacifist" nation ignore the history and scale of Japanese atrocities across the region ...'
Obviously, the Times is describing *post-WWII* Japan as a "semipacifist country". From the article: 'Japan has not sent troops into combat since World War II, and its postwar constitution renounces the use of force “as a means of settling international disputes.”'
However, Japan has provided military support in Afghanistan, so you might have grounds for complaint on that point:
Japan Ends Naval Support for Afghan War
By MARTIN FACKLER
JAN. 15, 2010
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/16/world/asia/16japan.html
Obviously, the Times is describing *post-WWII* Japan as a "semipacifist country". From the article: 'Japan has not sent troops into combat since World War II, and its postwar constitution renounces the use of force “as a means of settling international disputes.”'
However, Japan has provided military support in Afghanistan, so you might have grounds for complaint on that point:
Japan Ends Naval Support for Afghan War
By MARTIN FACKLER
JAN. 15, 2010
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/16/world/asia/16japan.html
Do the countries Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan, Kosovo, Vietnam, North and South Korea ring any bells?
Oh wait, I forgot those were economically motivated "peacekeeping" missions…
Oh wait, I forgot those were economically motivated "peacekeeping" missions…
'All' Asian countries is a fairly broad statement...one could say the choice in the region is between Japan's past and China's present
Until now, the US, Israel, Russia, China and Britain have had this lucrative business to themselves. Now with more competition, America needs to do more. Perhaps they can put cartons of American cigarettes on the seats of fighter jets or tanks.
1
There will always be a need for national defense products and international market demands to be met by those who produce them. The fact that Japan now produces these goods beyond its immediate defense needs, and sells them on the international market, is no indicator of a resurgence of Japanese imperialism of the 1930's-1940's, but rather taking advantage of commercial opportunities.
Germany is number 4 in global weapons sales and has been for a long while. It seems that it's about time to let Japan in the market also. The Japanese-Americans were interned during the war and not German-Americans despite the fact that there were far more German spies here than Japanese spies. Must be the Caucasian component working in there. If Germans can engage in such a big way in weapons sales then Japan has every right as much as Germany does to also participate.
The racist attitude to hold the Japanese to a higher standard is indeed a glaring example of misplaced and misunderstood attitudes!
The racist attitude to hold the Japanese to a higher standard is indeed a glaring example of misplaced and misunderstood attitudes!
21
Sadly, I don't think Japan has much choice but to take this active given the aggressive nature of China's action in the South China Sea and other areas.
This is bad news for the world, however, this path cannot lead to a peaceful outcome.
This is bad news for the world, however, this path cannot lead to a peaceful outcome.
17
yes, let's permit china to intimidate the Phillipines, Taiwan, Vietnam, South Korea, Japan and Malaysia
2
China's actions in the South China Sea are no more "aggressive" than the US-UK actions on Diego Garcia, where 2000 civilians were forcibly relocated to build a secretive military base. At least China hasn't evicted multiple (e.g. Bikini Atoll) indigenous populations to attain world dominance. China has never threatened international shipping, and yet we read daily about the need to "safeguard international shipping" from the Chinese threat. Hogwash. The United Staes has conducted more nuclear tests (by far) than any other nation. We must stop being lead by the military-industrial-Cogressional complex that President Eisenhower warned us about in 1961.
A disturbing development from a country that committed second worst atrocity during World War II and has never properly atoned for it...
13
so, because Japan has not atoned, CHina should be permitted to seize lands lying within the 200 mile zones of the Phillipines, Vietnam and Malaysia? Should China atone for this imperialism or is it OK because it is Chinese imperialism?
17
Japan HAS apologized numerous times and provided billions in reparations money and technical support that made China's rise possible in the first place. With the exception of a handful of schools, all Japanese textbooks clearly explain that Japan was an aggressor in WW2 and mention the Nanjing massacre.
Either way, this does not give China a blanc check to trample on its weaker neighbors, like Vietnam and the Philippines. And then we're not even talking about Tibet.
The Chinese Communist Party is the worst when it comes to using history to legitimize their own atrocious behavior.
Either way, this does not give China a blanc check to trample on its weaker neighbors, like Vietnam and the Philippines. And then we're not even talking about Tibet.
The Chinese Communist Party is the worst when it comes to using history to legitimize their own atrocious behavior.
15
There are a lot of people who say the USA committed the worst atrocity of WWII by dropping the atomic bombs on Japan.
1
Every country has a right to defend itself. However, what worries me about Japan is that its remilitarization is happening in conjunction with an unhealthy rise in nationalism, right-wing extremism, incidents of racism, xenophobia and racial discrimination here in Japan.
Japan has been taking an increasingly authoritarian, jingoist and aggressive stance recently, which should be of concern to all. At home, it has been putting severe restrictions on freedom of press and harrassment of any media outlets who do not toe the nationalist party line and cower to those advocating a more right wing conservative agenda is on the rise. Japan has been severely criticised in recent reports by both the United Nations and the United States for its dismal record on civil and human rights, especially for minorities and foreign residents of Japan.
The Japanese have long held the view of Japanese racial superiority and uniqueness, as encapsulated by the term "Nihonjinron". Japan is accused by its neighbors of committing acts of extreme brutality during WW2, for which Japan has still not fully taken responsibility for, that many attribute to arrogance and hubris. As an American and a long term foreign resident of Japan, I just hope that Japan does not repeat the mistakes of its recent past. However, looking at recent developments on the ground here in Japan, I am not too optimistic.
Japan has been taking an increasingly authoritarian, jingoist and aggressive stance recently, which should be of concern to all. At home, it has been putting severe restrictions on freedom of press and harrassment of any media outlets who do not toe the nationalist party line and cower to those advocating a more right wing conservative agenda is on the rise. Japan has been severely criticised in recent reports by both the United Nations and the United States for its dismal record on civil and human rights, especially for minorities and foreign residents of Japan.
The Japanese have long held the view of Japanese racial superiority and uniqueness, as encapsulated by the term "Nihonjinron". Japan is accused by its neighbors of committing acts of extreme brutality during WW2, for which Japan has still not fully taken responsibility for, that many attribute to arrogance and hubris. As an American and a long term foreign resident of Japan, I just hope that Japan does not repeat the mistakes of its recent past. However, looking at recent developments on the ground here in Japan, I am not too optimistic.
56
It's an exaggeration to say there's been a surge of nationalism here. As even this story notes, much of the Japanese public opposes the changes Abe is pushing.
And anyone who watches the Diet proceedings on T.V. knows what strong political opposition there is to Abe's plans involving the Japanese military.
Abe is in power only because of the perceived failures of the leading opposition party when it was in power and the hopes he has created for a full-fledged economic recovery.
I think it's safe to say -- and the polls support this notion -- that the great majority of Japanese welcome Abe's efforts on the economic front but are extremely wary of his plans to increase Japan's military role in the world.
And anyone who watches the Diet proceedings on T.V. knows what strong political opposition there is to Abe's plans involving the Japanese military.
Abe is in power only because of the perceived failures of the leading opposition party when it was in power and the hopes he has created for a full-fledged economic recovery.
I think it's safe to say -- and the polls support this notion -- that the great majority of Japanese welcome Abe's efforts on the economic front but are extremely wary of his plans to increase Japan's military role in the world.
13
much of what you say is true but you need to consider the role of the economic downturn and Chinese claims on Japanese internationally recognized territory combined with China's immense naval buildup. How would Japan be expected to respond? Just accede to Chinese demands?
11
The surge of nationalism and militarism has not been seen among the Japanese people.
However, they gave Abe absolute control over both houses of Parliament recently.
And Abe, who honors the war criminals who murdered Americans, is determined to rebuild Japan's military might.
However, they gave Abe absolute control over both houses of Parliament recently.
And Abe, who honors the war criminals who murdered Americans, is determined to rebuild Japan's military might.
1
"After a ban on weapons exports was lifted last year, manufacturers in the semi-pacifist country are cautiously but unmistakably telling the world they are open for business."
The U.S. has been pushing Japan to re-militarize, so Japan can help us in future invasions. And given China's power, it's not surprising that Japan's prime minister is also committee to making Japan a military power once again. Not surprisingly, China, having suffered greatly from Japan's genocidal activities, is not happy either. China, of course, has long supported North Korea as a buffer against future foreign aggression.
The U.S. has been pushing Japan to re-militarize, so Japan can help us in future invasions. And given China's power, it's not surprising that Japan's prime minister is also committee to making Japan a military power once again. Not surprisingly, China, having suffered greatly from Japan's genocidal activities, is not happy either. China, of course, has long supported North Korea as a buffer against future foreign aggression.
16
China and Russia are the greatest threat to democracy of tomorrow.
SELL JAPAN ! SELL !!!
SELL JAPAN ! SELL !!!
12
The greatest threat to democracy are the leaders of both parties in the U.S., who have sold our country out to China under the heading of "free trade." We shouldn't blame China and Russia for OUR cowardice and OUR lack of defense of democratic values.
5
Welcome news, as the Japanese could prove to be an invaluable ally in the free world's inevitable confrontation with the PRC.
24
Just hope Japan doesn't turn against us one day. 70 years ago we were allied with China and fought a bitter war against Japan. Alot can change in the next 70 years.
One thing is for sure, Japan is rearming and re-militarizing. That genie doesn't go back in the bottle.
One thing is for sure, Japan is rearming and re-militarizing. That genie doesn't go back in the bottle.
After a long interregnum -- and pressured by Washington -- Japan's military-industrial complex is rising again.
American taxpayers might get a positive externality on weapons procurement spending. Advanced weapons systems may be purchased cheaply from Japanese companies.
American taxpayers might get a positive externality on weapons procurement spending. Advanced weapons systems may be purchased cheaply from Japanese companies.
9