Japan to build up military potential over rising tension in region.

21/6 Tass 39

TOKYO, June 21 (Itar-Tass) - Japan intends to boost the numerical
strength of its self-defence forces and to improve their technical
equipment in connection with North Korean nuclear tests and the rising
military might of China, says the draft of a new state defence programme
for 2010-2012, that was made public on Sunday by the Kyodo News Agency.

The document stresses Tokyo should review its policy of annual cuts in
budget expenditures for defence, which has been pursued since 1995.
The draft programme expresses the opinion that Japan should become
more flexible so as to respond adequately to changes in the international
situation. The special defence committee of the ruling Liberal Democratic
Party voiced support late in May for equipping the Japanese armed forces
for a preventive strike on foreign military bases if irrefutable data are
received on an early attack on the Japanese territory.
The document notes with respect to China and North Korea that "regions
bordering Japan update their military potential and take active moves for
its development". Taking into account the fact that the Japanese armed
forces have limited powers due to the Constitution, the programme suggests
an increase by 5,000 men in the numerical strength of land self-defence
forces.
According to the evaluation of the Defence Ministry, Tokyo should
demonstrate more clearly its deterrent forces, which can be used for a
counter strike in response to an attack of a potential foe. The mid-term
programme notes that Japan should continue perfecting the anti-missile
defence, taking into account missile launches and nuclear tests by
Pyongyang.
A revised version of the Japanese defence programme is to be approved
by the cabinet till the year-end. However, considerable changes may be
made in the draft programme, taking into account the fact that elections
will be held to the parliament lower chamber, and there is a chance that
the opposition Democratic Party will win.
-0-bur/kud