Japan's Growing Security Concerns

Japan is increasingly concerned about threats posed by China, Russia, and North Korea, particularly evident after a Chinese military plane briefly entered Japanese airspace. This incident triggered an immediate scramble of Air-Defense Force fighters and led to strong condemnation from the Japanese government, reflecting heightened anxiety regarding Chinese military intentions. In response to such threats, Japan has ramped up its defense spending, while also recognizing the impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on its security landscape. Many Japanese citizens perceive a growing possibility that what is happening in Ukraine could have parallel implications for East Asia, highlighting a fraught perception of regional stability.