Experts and observers from multiple countries have voiced concern over Japan's recent push to revise its three national security documents, warning that any pursuit of nuclear submarines would threaten peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region.
Japan's Yomiuri Shimbun reported Wednesday, citing informed sources, that the Japanese government is set to revise the three national security documents within the year and is considering including language on "studying the introduction of nuclear-powered submarines for the Self-Defense Forces (SDF)."
The report said if "exploring the possession of nuclear submarines" is written into the documents, it would create conditions for the government to launch related research, after which the Japanese government would decide whether to acquire nuclear submarines.
Tharakorn Wusatirakul, deputy director of the Thai-Chinese Strategic Research Center (TCSRC) under the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), said this move exposes Japan's attempt to challenge the post-World War II international order.
"The Japanese government is considering revising its three security documents and has listed nuclear-powered submarines as one of the options for strengthening its so-called 'deterrence capability.' This move warrants high vigilance from the international community, especially Asian countries. It is no longer merely a matter of adding one type of military equipment -- it reflects Japan's trend in recent years of continuously expanding its military power and breaking away from the postwar peace system," he said.
Some observers said the move could pose a serious threat to regional stability.
"Revising the three security documents paves the way for offensive capabilities. This poses a serious threat to peace and stability in Northeast Asia and the entire Asia-Pacific. The government is going against public sentiment by moving towards nuclear amendment. This violates the spirit of its pacifist constitution. We must closely monitor Japan's evolving security policy and oppose any actions that undermine regional peace," said Chong Sin Woon, former deputy minister of education of Malaysia.
Guntram Kaiser, a German media observer, said, "Japan's adjustments to its security policy have raised concerns not only abroad but also at home, where they have sparked some protests. I think this is entirely understandable, as such adjustments could alter the regional security landscape."
Japan's three national security documents, namely the National Security Strategy, the National Defense Strategy and the Defense Buildup Program, were originally approved by the Japanese government in December 2022 and are regarded as the overarching framework for the country's security and defense.
Japan's pursuit of nuclear submarines threatens Asia-Pacific stability: international observers
