Japan’s ruling coalition plans to begin consultations in November to revise key security policies…reports Asian Lite News Desk
Japan’s ruling coalition plans to begin consultations next month on revising the country’s key security policies, with nuclear-powered submarines and a possible review of its long-standing non-nuclear principles among the main issues under consideration.
The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), led by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, and its coalition partner, the Japan Innovation Party (JIP), aim to revise the three key security documents by the end of the year, Kyodo News reported on Tuesday.
According to the report, the LDP has called for an early assessment of the feasibility of acquiring submarines capable of launching long-range missiles, including vessels equipped with next-generation propulsion systems.
The JIP has taken a stronger position, arguing that nuclear power is the only viable propulsion option for such submarines and urging the government to introduce them as soon as possible.
The party has also called for a review of the Three Non-Nuclear Principles, particularly the principle prohibiting the introduction of nuclear weapons into Japan. It has argued that the policy should be reassessed to reflect current security realities.
The two parties are expected to coordinate their positions through working-level consultations beginning in November.
Japan’s existing security framework was established in 2022, when the government adopted three key security documents. The acquisition of counterstrike capabilities was a major point of contention during the process, prompting multiple rounds of negotiations between the LDP and its then coalition partner, Komeito.
Takaichi recently said there was “room for further discussion” on the specific wording of the Three Non-Nuclear Principles. Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi has also repeatedly called for discussions on nuclear weapons and related security policies “without taboos”.
However, the prospect of changes to Japan’s nuclear-related security policies has raised concerns among sections of society.
On Monday, nuclear experts and peace advocates held a symposium in Tokyo opposing moves towards introducing nuclear-powered submarines. Participants warned that such a development could undermine regional security and the international nuclear non-proliferation regime.
The planned consultations are expected to shape the government’s approach to Japan’s defence capabilities and its established nuclear policy as the year-end deadline approaches.
