Last year’s “Defense of Japan 2007” was our first white paper since the transition of the Defense Agency to the Ministry of Defense. The white paper demonstrated the resolve of the Ministry to become an organization more resilient to crisis and more capable to contribute to the international peace.

Yet we cannot say the roughly one year that has passed from that time to the publication of this white paper has been a bright one. During this period, we have seen a wide range of incidents come to light: incidents that could hinder thorough implementation of civilian control, such as confusion over the amount of fuel provided and the mistaken destruction of a ship deck log; serious incidents that could hinder the establishment of a rigorous information security system, including information leakage via the Internet and leakage of a Special Defense Secret regarding the Aegis system; incidents that could hinder the transparency of defense procurement, including incidents of excessive billing by suppliers; and the arrest of a former Vice-Minister of Defense on suspicion of bribery. These serious incidents have deeply undermined the trust of the people, and I once again offer my sincerest apologies for these breaches of trust.

Regarding the collision of the MSDF destroyer “Atago” with the fishing boat “Seitokumaru”, which occurred on February 19, 2008, it is unacceptable that the SDF, whose mission is to protect the lives and property of the people, caused such an incident, and we deeply regret the occurrence of this tragedy. We intend to take all preventative measures to ensure that we will never cause this type of incident again.

In light of this series of incidents, discussion took place among members including experts at the Council for Reforming the Ministry of Defense, which had been established within the Prime Minister’s Office, and a report was compiled in July of this year.

This report thoroughly assessed and analyzed each type of incident that had occurred andwere made for reform based on the reform principles of 1) Strict adherence to rules and regulations, 2) Establishment of professionalism, and 3) Establishment of a management style that prioritizes the execution of duty, with the aim of total optimization.

Moreover, the report states that organizational reform is also necessary in order to enable the Ministry of Defense and the SDF to more steadily and effectively implement these three principles, while recommending the specific reforms to enhance the respective command functions of the Prime Minister’s Office and the Ministry of Defense.

Needless to say the underlying aim of this reform is not only to restructure the Ministry of Defense for its own sake, but rather to prevent the recurrence of incidents and accidents in the future. At the same time, through this restructuring we are trying to build a system that enables the Ministry of Defense and the SDF to respond more quickly and appropriately to a wide range of challenges, from new threats such as the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and international terrorism to diverse situations and prevailing difficulties in the security environment in areas surrounding Japan. Hereafter, we will proceed with further reviews within the Ministry of Defense and move toward steady implementation of dynamic reforms at the Ministry.

For protecting the independence and peace of Japan, it is the Ministry of Defense and the SDF alone which provide the ultimate defense for the people of Japan. That is why I believe that it is essential to be an organization governed by strict discipline in which the public can place its trust and which can respond to the mandate entrusted by the people of the nation. The majority of SDF personnel solemnly devote themselves to their missions, being engaged in international peace cooperation activities in the Indian Ocean and other regions of the world, or stationed in regions throughout Japan. This is why I believe that we must reinvent the Ministry of Defense and the SDF, for the sake of the people of Japan, for each and every SDF member, and in order to contribute to international peace and security.

This year’s edition of the “Defense of Japan 2008” was written with the joint aims of incorporating this resolve to reform the Ministry and communicating the SDF’s activities, both in Japan and overseas, in an accessible and easy-to-understand manner. Also by including columns written by SDF personnel about their day to day duties, we sought to accurately portray the Ministry of Defense and the SDF.

It is my hope that this “Defense of Japan 2008” will be read by a large number of people, and that it will not only enhance the understanding toward the Ministry of Defense and the SDF but also lead to increased attention to and support for the steady implementation of reform of the Ministry.

Yoshimasa Hayashi
Minister of State for Defense

Visit Defense of Japan 2008 Website

You can download the report in PDF format.

PART I
Chapter 1
Issues in the International Community

Various countries have formed an international alliance, and the fight against terrorism is ongoing. However, terrorism continues to occur at locations throughout the world. The transfer and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction is also cause for concern, and efforts regarding the North Korean and Iranian nuclear issues are continuing.

Although the security situation in Iraq remains difficult, the number of attacks and the number of terrorism-related casualties have fallen, indicating some degree of improvement.

Chapter 2
National Defense Policies of Countries
U.S. and Iraqi troops discuss joint operations

The United States continues to promote the review of its military stance and troop withdrawal. In view of the ongoing operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, the United States is aiming to increase the number of troops in the Army and Navy in order to expand military capabilities and lighten the burden on divisions. North Korea’s issues of weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missiles pose serious threats to the peace and stability of East Asia and the international community.

Against the backdrop of higher national defense spending, China is working to further modernize its military, and there is a need for vigilant analysis of such implications. Furthermore, China’s breakdown of military spending remains unclear, therefore improved transparency is desirable. Russia continues to promote military reforms. Increased activity by the Russian military can be observed in the Far East region.

PART II
Chapter 1
The Basic Concepts of Japan’s Defense Policy

Peace, security, and independence cannot be ensured by aspirations alone; they must be supported by a wide range of policies, including diplomatic efforts, and cooperation with allied nations along with self-defense capability.

Under the Constitution, Japan’s basic philosophy is to maintain an exclusively defense-oriented policy and not become a military superpower that poses a threat to other nations. In line with this basic philosophy, while continuing to maintain the Japan-U.S. Security Arrangements, Japan continues to ensure civilian control, uphold the three non-nuclear principles, and voluntarily maintain an appropriate self-defense capability.

While the Ministry of Defense continues to uphold the principles of defense policy, it is necessary at all times to make appropriate modes and play a suitable role in response to the changing security environment.

The transition of the Defense Agency to the Ministry of Defense in January 2007, as well as Japan’s participation in international peace cooperation activities, are part of such efforts to respond appropriately. Through these activities, the Ministry of Defense is aiming to become an organization that is more resilient to crisis and that can contribute to world peace.

Additionally, in recent years, there have been a number of debates regarding the preparation of the “general law” for international peace cooperation. The Ministry of Defense will take into account the views of the ruling parties and the people of Japan in considering these issues.

Chapter 2
The National Defense Program Guidelines and Build-Up of Defense Capability

The National Defense Program Guidelines for FY 2005 and Beyond (NDPG) enacted in December 2004 set forth two security goals for Japan: to prevent and eliminate direct threats to Japan and to improve the international security environment so as not to pose a threat to Japan. In order to achieve these goals, Japan will pursue a three-pronged approach combining its own efforts with the cooperation of allied nations and the international community.

In addition, in order to realize the new defense capability stipulated in the NDPG, the Ministry of Defense has drawn up a mid-term defense program for FY 2005-2009, and is proceeding with efforts to improve the defense capability in accordance with the program.

In FY 2008, taking into account the security environment surrounding Japan, the Ministry of Defense is proceeding with the modernization of defense capability, construction of organizations to strengthen policy formation and information security functions, and efforts for the peace and security of the international community, while taking into account the efficiency and priority of the build-up of defense capability.

PART III
Chapter 1
Operations of Self-Defense Forces for Defense of Japan and Responses to Various Situations

The SDF makes efforts to be able to respond appropriately for the defense of Japan as laid out in the NDPG, including response to ballistic missile attack, response to attacks by guerilla or other special forces, response to air surveillance or invasion of Japan's airspace or incursion of armed vessels, response to large-scale or extraordinary disasters, and response to new situations or serious aggression.

The SDF is making various efforts to be able to respond effectively to ballistic missiles and other situations in the event of changes in the emergency response regarding operation, including the addition of BMD capability to the MSDF Aegis system-equipped destroyer Kongo in December 2007 and the addition of Patriot PAC3 to the anti-aircraft troops stationed in the Tokyo area.

In addition, Japan is preparing legislation to ensure the peace and security of the nation and the people in situations in which Japan is under attack, and accordingly, the SDF is building up operational structures, and working on an ongoing basis to conduct rapid and effective self-defense operations in a range of circumstances.

Chapter 2
Strengthening of the Japan-U.S. Security Arrangements

The Japan-U.S. Security Arrangements and the Japan-U.S. Alliance, which forms the basis for the arrangements, are of great significance for Japan's defense and the peace and stability of the region, as well as for the improvement of the international security environment.

In recent years, both Japan and the United States, in order to develop the alliance relationship even further, and in response to changes in the security environment, have conducted Japan-U.S. consultations regarding the future of the Japan-U.S. Alliance, including the realignment of military forces. At the 2 + 2 meeting in May 2006, the two countries compiled a Roadmap for the Realignment of Forces.

Currently, based on the Law Concerning Special Measures on Smooth Implementation of the Realignment of U.S. Forces in Japan and Related SDF Forces, established in May 2007, various measures are being steadily implemented in Japan, including promotion of the realignment of forces.

Even as these efforts progress, Japan is making efforts to maintain the effectiveness of the Japan-U.S. Security Arrangements and improve trust through such means as various Japan-U.S. consultations and preparation of legislation, Japan-U.S. joint exercises, exchange in the fields of equipment and technology, and various efforts related to U.S. facilities and base areas in Japan.

Chapter 3
Improvement of the International Security Environment

The NDPG aim at improving international security along with the defense of Japan and reducing threats.

In Iraq, based on the Law Concerning Special Measures on Humanitarian and Reconstruction Assistance in Iraq, the SDF is currently contributing to the reconstruction and stability of Iraq by providing support to the U.N. and allied forces.

In the international fight against terrorism, based on the Replenishment Support Special Measures Law established in January 2008, the MSDF is conducting refueling and water supply activities in the Indian Ocean to the vessels of various countries participating in maritime interdiction operations.

Concerning international peace cooperation activities, in June 2008, Japan decided to dispatch SDF personnel to the U.N. Sudan Mission (UNMIS) headquarters. In addition, the SDF continues its activities under the U.N. Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) and in the Golan Heights and the United Nations Mission in Nepal (UNMIN).

Moreover, through qualitative and quantitative enhancements to security dialogues and defense exchanges, Japan is actively working toward the improvement of the international security environment. Furthermore, Japan is playing a leading and active role in efforts for arms control, disarmament, and non-proliferation, including the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI).

Chapter 4
Citizens of Japan, the Ministry of Defense and the SDF

In order to perform their duties, it is essential for the SDF, which is at the core of Japan’s defense capability, to gain the understanding and support of the people of Japan. Establishing the human and material infrastructure is also vital.

The base of defense capability is organizational and human infrastructure. Ultimately, the management of the organization depends not on equipment or systems operations, but on the ability of each troop member.

The Ministry of Defense and the SDF have formed a variety of organizations, centered around the GSDF, MSDF, and ASDF, which comprise the true power of the organization. In order to secure the human infrastructure, various necessary measures are conducted at all stages, from troop recruitment and enlistment, and training exercises to retirement and reemployment.

In addition, information communications is the foundation of the control and command infrastructure, from central command and various levels of command through to the end troops. The Ministry of Defense and SDF place importance on strengthening this capability. In the area of technological research and development, while grasping operational needs, through new research and development methods and introduction of outstanding technologies resulting from industry-academic-public sector cooperation, efforts are being made to incorporate the latest science and technology.

The SDF operates in various forms in local communities with the support and cooperation of the people of Japan. The SDF also conducts cooperative activities to support the livelihood of the people of Japan. These activities further solidify the mutual trust between local communities, the people of Japan, and the SDF.

In addition, in order to fully uncover the functions of defense facilities, with the understanding and cooperation of local residents, it is necessary to maintain such facilities in a condition for stable use at all times. The SDF consciously endeavors to minimize the impact of establishment and operation of defense facilities on the lives of local residents.

PART IV
The unwavering trust of the people of Japan is the most important factor in order to display defense capability and its associated functions. However, in recent years, starting with the arrest of a Vice-Minister suspected of accepting bribes, a succession of incidents has come to light.

To address these incidents, the Ministry of Defense and SDF must launch a comprehensive review of standard operating procedures and construct full-fledged policies to prevent a recurrence.

The Ministry of Defense and SDF resolve to make wholehearted efforts for reform in order to restore the organizations’ ability to support the peace and independence of Japan.

The Council for Reforming the Ministry of Defense, which was established in the Prime Minister's Office, has convened meetings since November 2007, and in July 2008 a report was released.

Taking into account analysis and investigation of the misconducts, the report recommended the following three basic principles for reform: (1) strict adherence to rules and regulations, (2) establishment of professionalism, and (3) establishment of a management style that prioritizes execution of duty, with the aim of total optimization.

The Ministry of Defense intends to make efforts towards concrete reform of the Ministry at the earliest possible date.

In addition to the discussions of the Reform Council, the Ministry of Defense has also held discussions at committees established within the Ministry.

Preserving secrecy is an indispensable platform for the national defense. Therefore, the Ministry is investigating and implementing various measures to prevent the leakage of information.

In addition, the Ministry of Defense has in the past endeavored to acquire equipment in an appropriate and efficient manner. Taking into account the efforts for the promotion of Comprehensive Acquisition Reform in March 2008, going forward the Ministry will continue steady implementation.

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