Expanding Alliances and Addressing China's Growing Maritime Influence

Japan has outlined its strategy for security collaboration with various nations, including Australia, India, and those in Europe, within its 2025 defense white paper. This initiative reflects Tokyo's intention to strengthen its alliances, particularly with like-minded countries, as a means of complementing its existing security partnership with the United States. The overarching goal is to collectively deter China's growing influence in the maritime domain.

The annual defense report, released by the Defense Ministry, places significant emphasis on concerns regarding China. This year's edition highlights potential scenarios, including the possibility of China employing "gray zone" tactics. These tactics encompass a range of actions, such as military intimidation and blockades, that fall short of outright armed conflict. The report specifically addresses the concern that China might utilize such methods to invade Taiwan, potentially aiming to circumvent direct intervention by the U.S. military.