Quote Originally Posted by Baba Ga'on
Realize that it'll take another three years before this change in law can actually even be implemented; that's still before the entire row that'll ensue over a referendum and Diet vote surrounding the alteration of article 9 of the Japanese constitution.

It's not exactly urgent, therefore. Still, I agree with you that it's interesting. The return of the Imperial Japanese Navy? A counterweight to China? Perhaps. But that depends on a whole lot more than just Japan renouncing its highly peaceful intentions.
I concede it isnt urgent, but we all know the economic power of china is rising, as well as india. So is thier influence and military spending. We also have Korea lumped in there, both korea's have unique issues, one being a new member of the nuclear club, the other being one of the largest economies in the world.

The remilitarization of Japan is notable because its happening at a time when thier traditional advosaries are growing in power as well. Perhaps have already greatly surpased the Japanese in its immediate capability, but what was striking to me in this article is the nationalist movement in Japan.

I personally believe we are getting a glimpse at the next big issue (say 10 years?)