TOKYO (AP) — Japan needs to adapt to new methods of warfare like using artificial intelligence and drones that have been deployed in Ukraine and the Middle East and to strengthen its defense industry, the government said Tuesday.Japan has bolstered its military capability and spending in recent years and has started deploying long-range cruise missiles as a deterrent to China’s military activity.The 598-page defense paper adopted by the Cabinet on Tuesday reiterated that China is Japan’s biggest strategic challenge. Japan is alarmed by the growing presence and frequency of Chinese warships in the Pacific Ocean. The annual white paper outlines Japan’s military activity and priorities and analysis of military trends in specific countries. As Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s government needs public support for further military buildup and spending and to attract service members, the report has features to appeal to readers including a cartoon on the cover and links to video clips in Japanese, English and Chinese.
Combat drones for new warfareInspired by the use of drones by Ukraine, Japan considers it is essential to adapt to “new ways of warfare,” the paper said.With many countries racing to develop combat drones, Japan’s government prioritizes development of its own for a coastal defense, in combination with long-range missiles.“Speed is key,” Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said in early July.
