Japan’s space defense ambitions raise militarization concerns

Japan is reportedly planning to rename and restructure its Air Self-Defense Force into the “Air and Space Self-Defense Force” in fiscal year 2026, according to Nihon Keizai Shimbun.

The move would formally expand the force’s responsibilities to include outer space operations and is currently under review in Japan’s National Diet. If approved, it would mark the first name change to Japan’s Self-Defense Forces since 1954.

Japan has already been building up its space defense capabilities in recent years, including expanding its Space Operations Group, which is expected to grow further under the new plan. The proposal has sparked public debate, with critics warning it could accelerate militarization and increase defense spending at the expense of social programs.

Credit – CGTN