Tokyo, Nov. 11 (Jiji Press)–The Japanese government plans to clearly state that it will strengthen so-called denial capabilities to deter potential invasions when revising its three key national security-related documents at the end of the year, it was learned Wednesday. The government intends to position the enhancement of denial capabilities as a key principle of strengthening Japan’s defense capabilities, aiming to convince adversaries that an invasion would inflict significant damage on them. It will also seek to bolster production systems for defense equipment during peacetime in order to ensure sustained operations in the event of a contingency, arguing that a transformation of Japan’s defense capabilities is necessary to strengthen its denial capabilities. The revised documents are also expected to address “new ways of warfare” involving artificial intelligence and drones. The government presented the plans to a joint meeting of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party’s National Defense Division and Research Commission on Security, held at the party’s headquarters on Wednesday. The Defense Ministry explained to LDP members that denial capabilities refer to the ability to prevent an adversary from achieving its objectives and thereby deter an invasion of Japan. Specifically, the government will seek to enhance its standoff defense capabilities, which include using longer-range missiles to strike targets from outside an adversary’s range, as well as its unmanned asset defense capabilities, which involve attacking enemy vessels with large numbers of drones. It will also strengthen intelligence gathering, warning and surveillance using satellites and drones to respond swiftly to enemy incursions. To boost defense equipment production, the government plans to introduce a system under which production facilities would be owned by the government but operated by private-sector companies. It will also provide financial support to private companies to establish production systems capable of rapidly ramping up output of defense equipment, including ammunition and drones, in emergencies. Japan will also seek to procure defense equipment from allies and like-minded countries to prepare for contingencies. The government said that AI will be used to analyze vast amounts of data collected by drones and satellites to enable faster decision-making and swift responses to contingencies. To support these measures, the government will work to secure enough Self-Defense Forces personnel amid serious staffing shortages. Steps under consideration include extending the retirement age for SDF personnel and reviewing their pay structure. END [Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]
