Japan’s government has described its largest military build-up since the Second World War as a necessary measure to prevent conflict in the Asia-Pacific region. In an exclusive interview with the BBC, a senior Japanese official warned that without a credible deterrent, the risk of war is real. The statement came as Britain reaffirmed its security pact with Tokyo, a move that proponents say will bolster collective defence against rising tensions in the region.
The Japanese defence surge, which includes a 26% increase in spending for the next fiscal year, is aimed at countering China’s military expansion and North Korea’s missile programme. The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said: “We are not seeking confrontation. But we must be prepared to defend our people and our allies. This is not about aggression; it is about peace through strength.”
The UK-Japan security pact, signed last year, allows for joint military exercises and closer cooperation on defence technology. British officials have emphasised that the partnership is not directed at any specific country, but rather at promoting stability in the Indo-Pacific. The UK’s Defence Secretary said: “Our commitment to Japan is unwavering. We stand together in the face of shared challenges.”
The build-up has drawn criticism from Beijing, which accused Japan of “militarisation” and warned of a potential arms race. But Tokyo insists its actions are defensive. The official added: “We have learnt from history. We know that weakness invites aggression. Japan’s defence spending is now in line with other major economies, and we have a right to protect ourselves.”
For ordinary Japanese citizens, the defence surge raises questions about priorities. Japan’s economy has struggled with stagnation and rising costs. Household budgets are feeling the pinch from inflation, while public services face cuts. Some critics argue that the billions spent on defence could be better used to support families and infrastructure.
However, supporters counter that security is a prerequisite for economic stability. “If we are not safe, we cannot prosper,” said a Tokyo-based economist. “Japan’s businesses depend on open sea lanes and regional peace. The defence spend is an insurance policy against disruption.”
The UK’s reaffirmation of the security pact is also seen as a signal to Russia and China. Britain’s withdrawal from the European Union has accelerated its pivot towards the Indo-Pacific, with trade deals and defence agreements forming the backbone of its post-Brexit strategy. But there are concerns that this could stretch British military resources thin, especially with ongoing commitments in Europe and the Middle East.
Back in Britain, the security pact with Japan has received cross-party support, though some MPs have questioned the cost. The UK is already increasing defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2030. “We must be realistic about what we can afford,” said a Labour MP. “Our primary duty is to the British people and their livelihoods.”
The Japanese official concluded: “We live in a dangerous world. The only way to avoid war is to be ready for it. This is hard truth, but we must face it together.”
As the sun sets over Tokyo, the debate over guns versus butter continues. For many, the choice is not an easy one. The cost of peace is never cheap, but the cost of war is immeasurable.
