Japan’s Defence Minister Minoru Kihara has issued a stark warning that the nation must significantly bolster its military spending and capabilities to deter potential conflict, framing the move as essential for preserving peace rather than preparing for war. In a speech to the National Press Club in Tokyo, Kihara argued that the current geopolitical climate demands a ‘fundamental shift’ in Japan’s defence posture, citing threats from North Korea’s missile programmes and China’s growing military assertiveness in the region.
The minister’s comments come as the Japanese government prepares to unveil its largest ever defence budget, a 50% increase under the new National Security Strategy adopted last year. Kihara stated that ‘the days of relying solely on diplomacy and economic power are over’ and that Japan must now invest heavily in offensive capabilities, including long-range missiles and cybersecurity. He stressed that ‘deterrence is the only path to avoid war’ and that a weak defence posture would invite aggression.
However, Kihara’s remarks have sparked alarm among pacifist groups and opposition parties, who argue that Japan’s post-war constitution renounces war and prohibits maintaining ‘war potential’. Critics accuse the government of stoking fear to justify militarisation and diverting funds from social welfare. ‘The minister is pushing a dangerous agenda under the guise of peace,’ said opposition lawmaker Yukiko Kada. ‘We are being asked to sacrifice our hard-won constitutional principles for a security policy that risks entangling Japan in foreign conflicts.’
Economic experts also point to the strain on public finances. Japan’s national debt is already the highest in the world, and the planned defence spending increases will require either drastic cuts elsewhere or tax rises. ‘This is a massive ask for a population already facing stagnant wages and rising costs,’ said economist Yuri Saito. ‘The government is choosing bombs over bread, and the working families of Osaka and Tokyo will pay the price.’
Kihara dismissed such concerns, insisting that ‘the greatest cost is war itself’ and that the investment is necessary to protect Japanese lives and sovereignty. He argued that the new capabilities would be used strictly for self-defence and that Japan remains committed to its ‘peaceful nation’ identity. But for many, the line between defence and offence is blurring.
The debate highlights a wider tension in Japanese society between a deep-seated anti-war sentiment and a mounting sense of insecurity. As the government pours billions into deterrence, the question is whether it can truly prevent conflict or will simply set the stage for a new arms race in East Asia. For now, Kihara’s message is clear: prepare for peace by preparing for war.
