September 29, 2025

Akahata editorial (excerpts)

An expert panel of the Defense Ministry on September 19 recommended that Japan acquire submarines equipped with long-range missiles, seemingly with the intention of introducing nuclear-powered submarines.

Describing such submarines as “strategic assets capable of covert operations”, the recommendation states that they should be equipped with vertical launch systems (VLS) to enable firing long-range missiles.

VLS-equipped nuclear submarines are, by their nature, used solely for the purpose of inflicting catastrophic destruction. They could legally constitute “offensive weapons” that the government is prohibited from possessing under any circumstances by the Constitution.

Enhancing Japan’s enemy-base strike capabilities, in line with the U.S. military strategy toward China, would intensify military tensions in East Asia and increase the risk of war.

The recommendation emphasizes that Japan should actively promote arms exports as this would lead to growth in the country’s defense industry through expansion of overseas sales.

Currently, arms exports are only permitted if they fall under one of the following categories: rescue; transport; surveillance; monitoring; or minesweeping. The recommendation, however, suggests that the transfer of military equipment to countries facing threats from others should be unrestricted.

Regarding the defense industry, the recommendation states that the introduction of state-owned defense factories should also be considered because advancing independent R&D activities with private funding alone is difficult.

The recommendation seems to be pushing Japan to become a “merchant of death” in violation of the Constitution’s pacifism by allowing exports of lethal weapons to countries involved in conflicts. This would literally accelerate the creation of a war-capable nation and must be stopped immediately.