The number of emergency scrambles by the Japan Self-Defense Forces against potentially invading aircraft was approximately 600 last fiscal year, marking the lowest figure in the past decade, according to the Ministry of Defense.
Japanese official Koizumi stated that a Ground Self-Defense Force (GSDF) officer's performance at an LDP convention was not a political act. Opposition parties had argued it violated Article 61 of the Self-Defense Forces law, which restricts political activities by SDF members.
Japan's Self-Defense Forces carried out foreign military asset protection activities 11 times in 2025 under national security laws, primarily for the U.S. and British militaries.
A recent poll indicates that support for the Takaichi Cabinet has dipped to 58%, while 49% of respondents oppose the dispatch of Japan's Self-Defense Forces to the Middle East.
A member of Japan's Self-Defense Forces (SDF) reportedly broke into the Chinese Embassy in Japan, an incident a Chinese expert claims exposes growing far-right ideology within the SDF.
Japan's Self-Defense Forces (SDF) are reorganizing major units, a move interpreted by Chinese experts as having offensive traits and potentially challenging the post-WWII order, with China reportedly in mind.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi stated that no decision has been made regarding the dispatch of Self-Defense Forces to the Strait of Hormuz, despite G7 chair France considering escorting vessels amid ongoing blockades.
An incident involving a US boat highlights the presence of exile groups advocating insurgency in Cuba, a marginal but historically significant strategy within the opposition.
Japanese Defense Minister Koizumi reiterated his view that Self-Defense Forces members singing the national anthem at a party convention did not violate the SDF law, but admitted there were issues with information sharing within the Ministry of Defense.
A discussion has emerged regarding whether Tokyo should apologize for an incident involving a Self-Defense Forces officer breaking into the Chinese Embassy, with considerations on the cultural implications of apologies.
Japan will send Self-Defense Forces personnel, including 'combat' troops, to participate in the annual Balikatan military exercises in the Philippines for the first time, marking a new milestone in regional security cooperation.
The commander of US forces in Japan has indicated a commitment to accelerating the reorganization plan aimed at strengthening cooperation with the Japanese Self-Defense Forces in preparation for contingencies.
The Japanese government has decided to allow its police and self-defense forces to access and neutralize sources of cyberattacks starting October 1st, aiming for proactive defense and deterrence against threats.
Japanese Defense Minister Koizumi inspected a Self-Defense Forces base in Miyagi Prefecture damaged by the Great East Japan Earthquake, vowing to apply lessons learned to future disaster prevention and strengthen equipment and training.
The Philippine military conducted its first joint exercise with Japan's Self-Defense Forces and the US military near the Bashi Channel, located between Taiwan and the Philippines.
Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Kihara stated that Self-Defense Forces members singing the national anthem at a Liberal Democratic Party convention does not violate the SDF law restricting political activities. However, he acknowledged that it could lead to political misunderstanding and should be reflected upon.
Japan's Self-Defense Forces (SDF) have set a new target to increase the proportion of women in their ranks to 13% by March 2036, up from the current 9%. This initiative aims to enhance diversity and address recruitment challenges.
China's Foreign Minister has questioned the kind of ideas instilled by the Self-Defense Forces in a military officer who broke into the Chinese Embassy.
Japan is considering whether to dispatch Self-Defense Forces (SDF) minesweepers to the Strait of Hormuz, with the decision dependent on the situation and legal basis.
China has accused a member of the Japan Self-Defense Forces of breaking into its embassy in Tokyo, escalating diplomatic tensions between the two nations.
While government officials deny the possibility of an immediate Self-Defense Forces deployment, U.S. calls for support mean discussions are sure to intensify.
Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary announced that a Self-Defense Forces transport aircraft will be on standby in the Maldives to evacuate Japanese citizens from the Middle East.