a Recent statement by the Japanese defense Minister Taro Kono shocked the world press. Mr. Kono did not believe in the reliability of U.S. missile defense systems of the class “aegis” (Aegis Ashore), and calls in case of threats of a preemptive strike against the bases of the enemy. In the U.S. press have described this as a shift Japanese doctrine since the end of world war II. The expert explained “MK”, against whom can be sent a pre-emptive strike.
Less than a month has passed since the official withdrawal of Tokyo from the U.S. missile defense system “aegis”. Now a new statement, which further aroused the suspicion immediately and in Beijing and in Washington. “Missile defense doesn’t give us a 100% guarantee to intercept and destroy enemy missiles. So I decided not to neglect the possibility of preemptive attacks on enemy bases. Subject to obvious threats,” said the military Minister Taro Kono.
He also said that the us missile defense cost the Japanese authorities is too expensive. In addition, against the “Aegis” in Japan supports the opposition, which in recent years has become more influential.
Washington made a disapproving, accusing Tokyo’s unauthorized change to defensive doctrine, which is at odds with the post-war agreements. The American media noted: first, the desire to make a point about a preemptive strike in a defensive doctrine, Tokyo was offered three years ago. But then it did not receive support. Now Japan is ready to the amendments.
Beijing has not commented on the statement by the Japanese Minister of defense. However, we can safely assume: PRC such statements by ears not miss. Moreover, over the past year in the South China sea, Tokyo has bred serious activity: the construction of the base near disputed Islands, and increased traffic movement of Japanese ships in the area.
– the Apparent contradictory policy of Japan – says “MK” military expert Alexei Leonov. – First they said that they have only peaceful intentions, no question about restoring the concept of the national army. And then pushing part of its self-defense forces in peacekeeping missions. But now, apparently, start to understand that the Japanese are increasingly becoming a bargaining chip in the event of a US war against China.
the Expert suggests that Japan really can easily do without the American missiles. Technology will allow them to get their heavy weapons.
But then the question arises: pre-emptive strike on what bases? Next after three nuclear powers, China, Russia, North Korea, trying to understand Alex Leonov. – So I think that all of these statements about preemptive strikes, thinly built a political game. While some East��nnaya the purpose of Tokyo, is difficult to say. On the one hand, there is a desire to negotiate more favorable terms from the United States. On the other – Japan has long wanted independence in their geopolitical decisions without regard for the White house in Washington. Therefore, it is necessary to closely monitor developments. Conclusions to do still early.
However, in the U.S., some experts believe that such statements Tokyo is no more than a justification of refusal of system of “aegis” and other American weapons. And such statements are intended primarily for domestic Japanese consumption.
